04 Women in the Fire Service

Question 1

Six key themes were identified related to injury (and women)

Answer 1

1. Women were in a male dominated field
2. Women experienced harassment
3. Men and women experienced the same rates/types of injuries
4. Fire service training was inadequate for women
5. Women experienced ill-fitting gear
6. Women lacked functional techniques/muscular endurance.

Question 2

Key factors that may act as barriers to women entering and remaining in the fire service

Answer 2

1. Discrimination and harassment
2. Unfair recruiting methods
3. Inadequate uniforms/equipment
4. Firehouse living
5. Unfair promotional processes