Type of Organization

Other Response Agency Type

Job Function

Firefighter / EMT-Basic

Years in Fire/EMS:

24 years

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Public Safety

Years With Department/Agency

18 1/2 years

Relationship Status:

Divorced

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

I was working in an office, which was connected to the fire department at the time, this was before 911 was available. When a call came in, I would "man" the radio until one of the firefighters responded to the station. After an invitation to a practice house burn, I was hooked! My career began as a "volunteer" firefighter in 1979, first woman firefighter for our county, then first full time woman firefighter. I did not join the fire service with the first woman firefighter in mind, however for the love of firefighting and EMS. I did love my profession, although the harassment from the guys who did not appreciate woman in the service was at times- trying..