By SHERI GASSAWAY
Missouri Correspondent
Are you a woman considering a career in as a fire fighter/paramedic? Sign up for Fire Up St. Louis and experience the work first hand.
The Florissant Valley Fire Protection District (FVFPD) is hosting a three-day camp for women April 21 to 23 where they will gain insight on how to get started in the fire service and learn what the job is all about in a hands-on experience. The only requirement is that participants be 18-40.
Kate Freshman, a FVFPD fire fighter/paramedic and member of IAFF Local 2665, attended an international Women in Fire conference last year and met some female fire fighters in Oregon who were hosting a similar program for women in the same age group.
“We have a program for girls 14 to 18 called Camp Fury where girls can learn about fire and police work, but 18 is the age limit,” Freshman said. “I thought an extension of that program – similar to the one in Oregon, would be helpful here.”
Freshman took the idea to district officials and developed a training manual. Classes will be taught be female fire fighters from Local 2665 and IAFF Local 73.
‘SUCH A REWARDING CAREER’
“So many times, women come up to me and say, ‘I never thought women could be fire fighters,’” said Freshman, who’s been a fire fighter for four years. “Women are totally able to do the job. It’s such a rewarding career.”
In addition to the hands-on training and the exposure to the field of fire and emergency medical services, participants will also learn about educational opportunities and receive tips on building a resume.
EMPOWERING
“This would be a great class for women considering changing careers, single moms and gym rats,” Freshman said. “It will empower women to do something they’ve never done before, which will result higher self-confidence and provide tools they’ll be able to use in real life.”
Applications will be accepted through March 1. For more information, call Freshman at 314-972-4343 or email her at kfreshman@fvfpd.com.
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