CROSSLAKE — The second annual Region Five Women's Fire Service Expo will run from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at the Crosslake Fire Department.
Women currently working in the fire service, as well as those considering joining a fire department, are encouraged to attend.
The expo will provide a unique opportunity for women to explore the day-to-day tasks of the fire service, led by women who actively serve in Region Five fire departments.
Hands-on stations will include extrication tools, climbing a ladder truck, emergency medical station, donning and doffing gear, and advancing a charged hose line.
There will be a live demonstration of a car fire with a crew of female firefighters from Region Five fire departments taking the lead.
Participant testimonials from last year:
- “It’s very hands-on and realistic about expectations. Definitely took the fears out of it.”
- “Just do it! Come and see what it is like because why not?”
- “Worth the time to see if it’s really a fit for you.”
- “This is a great event to help women see what they are capable of doing and take away the fear behind it.”
- “It’s great to not only hear from other women but see them in action.”
This event aims to address the ongoing challenge of dwindling firefighter numbers, especially in rural departments, and the ongoing need to recruit and retain new members.
As the baby boomer generation retires from the fire service, there is a critical need to backfill those positions with younger generations. Currently, only 7% of firefighters are women, making this group an underutilized resource.
The Cuyuna Range Fire Chief’s Region Five encourages women to help fill open positions and strengthen fire departments.
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While firefighting may not be for everyone, breaking down barriers through events like this can inspire women to learn more about the profession. Increasing female participation in the fire service will not only bolster firefighter membership but also enhance the ability to serve communities.
The Region Five Women’s Fire Service Expo is designed to spark interest, foster curiosity and dismantle the barriers that may prevent women from considering a career in firefighting.
For more information, visit the event website at sites.google.com/view/region5womenfireexpo/home, Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/people/Womens-Fire-Expo-Region-5/61574211474822/ or email womensfireexporegion5@gmail.com.
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