Female firefighters comprise approximately 9% of the firefighting workforce, facing unique challenges and opportunities for the women serving their communities. Hear from firefighters from all ranks, and learn about the insights, standards and policies helping create a more inclusive space for women.
Marking the 50th anniversary of her historic hiring, Brewer reflects on her career and the challenges and joys of breaking the fire service glass ceiling
FEATURES & PROFILES
In this episode, host Marc Bashoor speaks with Fire Chief Joanne Rund about the running a combination department and joining at the top spot
Research examines the impact of the job on pregnant firefighters
Understanding the different models to facility design can help fire service leaders find the best solution for their department
The women offer insights for tackling challenges to inclusiveness in the fire service – and pushing back against the “haters”
Research shows that female firefighters face different risks than their male counterparts
IN THE NEWS
The paramedics and current or recent members of the fire prevention division said bias against Black women has affected their pay and opportunities
A police report says a female Easthampton firefighter noticed a “blue light” coming from a locker, which led her to find cameras in two lockers
The class of 90 includes one woman and recruits who speak a variety of languages
The lawsuit states that a senior firefighter stalked and harassed then-firefighter Angela Bommarito and criticizes Harrison Fire Department and town officials
Kimberly Schoppa “was just such a hard worker, she constantly smiled,” said Deputy Chief Tracey Reed
Former Asheville Fire Department Division Chief Joy Ponder said she endured emotional distress in a hostile work environment
Vancouver Fire Station 2 includes Captain Heidi Parr and Firefighters Melissa Anthony and Hannah Nelson
“Breaking barriers is possible,” said Queen Anunay, who until recently led the EMS division
Fred Mathis was found to be likely intoxicated while at FD HQ but, at some point, was marked out sick; accusations of special treatment emerge
The study, led by Dr. Denise Smith, has been published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
ON THE BETTER EVERY SHIFT PODCAST
The Anne Arundel County fire chief underscores the importance of transparency and trust when stepping into a new leadership role
The San Francisco assistant chief shares tactical tips for dominating the fire so it has no chance of victory
As she steps down from the top spot in Baltimore County, Rund takes on a new, family-focused role with the NFFF
The Fairfax County (Virginia) firefighter-paramedic talks crew bonding, firefighter reproductive health, and banishing ego to create space for vulnerable conversations
The former CAL FIRE chief of fire protection shares stories from her unique path from seasonal firefighter to fire chief and beyond
It’s important to connect with your fellow firefighters, get involved in training, and avoid silos
The battalion chief explains how so much of her decision-making is rooted in the 2008 Salisbury Millworks blaze
The Indianapolis battalion chief highlights the power of company officers to quash negativity
The Raleigh firefighter and peer support advocate explains her perspective on healthy boundaries, therapy and why connection is life-sustaining
The fire service scientist details her newest adventure, the Science Alliance, plus how to make data accessible at the station level