Did you know that less than 5% of firefighters in Canada are women? Golden Fire Rescue is proud to have women make up 20% of its membership. This past year, we hit a milestone by hiring our 10th woman as a firefighter and achieving a new level of diversity within the team.
Today, we want to recognize a special group of women at the fire hall. Golden Fire Rescue is honoured and proud of these dedicated firefighters and the work they do to protect their community.
We caught up with Chelsey, Justine, Kayley, Ali, Ellie, Tamara, and Jordan at this week’s fire practice to take some photos and learn more about being a female firefighter. Here’s what they had to say.
What is one word that you would say best describes a female firefighter?
Resilient, perseverance, tenacity, empowering and impactful!
What is the best thing about being a firefighter?
1.The best thing about being a firefighter is the physical and mental work involved. We are forever students. The fact that I get to learn something new everyday really keeps me motivated and inspired.
2. It is knowing that even when faced with tough challenges you always have your fire family there supporting you and offering guidance along the way.
3. Paving the way for a new generation and, of course, saving cats!
4. Helping the community and finding your strength.
What made you want to become a firefighter?
1. Wanting to do and be more for my community.
2. I knew from a very young age I wanted to: a. Be part of something bigger than myself, and b. Make a change and help those in need. As a little girl I'd read military history books and would dream of being the man or (rarely) the woman in the military. The ones that were doing the jobs that protected those who couldn't protect themselves or helped advance the world for better. At first, the Fire Service was a close second to the military. Although now I am so happy I joined, because it is definitely my number one passion to pursue this on a more serious level.
3. I wanted to become a firefighter because I wanted a job that was both physically and mentally challenging that could also help contribute in making a safer community.
4. I wanted to do something rewarding while continuously expanding on valuable skills and knowledge.
What has been the most rewarding experience you’ve had as a firefighter?
1. Watching our fire department grow in female numbers. Watching them take on tasks and learning the skills to take on any situation.
2. It is having the opportunity to work together as a team to continuously provide a service to the community.
3. I think one of the most rewarding parts of a firefighter is being able to help someone on one of their worst days.
4. For me, I have been fortunate enough have had extensive interior and exterior live fire training. That, along with the support of our experienced Captains, has helped me feel confident in a variety of calls over the last 2 years. And, putting out fires is a lot of fun!
5. The most rewarding experience for me has been enjoying the camaraderie I share with my fellow firefighters.
