Women in firefighting: challenges and experiences

¶ … Shirley VanArsdale, an applicant to the fire department of Landsdowne Township. This unusually strong, well-built woman has not succeeded in acquiring a position in the department, and feels that her disqualification has been unfair. The reasons she cites for this is the fact that she was hampered by provided clothing in some of the tests, while she did well in most of the physical tasks. Chief Robert Reich however feels that Ms. VanArsdale received an equal chance of passing the test. A point in the complainant's favor is however that, in its 20-year history, the Landsdowne fire department has never had a female firefighter. This, combined with the fact that Chief Reich refused to disclose the actual test scores, suggests that a closer investigation may result in possible solutions to the problem.

The first step towards a solution then could be an in-depth investigation into the situation. Test scores could be compared, and an investigation into the equipment provided for physical tests should be investigated. Based upon the findings of these tests, further action could be taken to resolve the situation.

It may be found that the attitude of the fire department in Landsdowne is similar to the prevalent views of many men in professions traditionally reserved for the male gender. In such a case, it may be wise to take steps towards education. The history of women in the firefighting profession for example serves as a testimony to their ability and their presence in fire departments. In fact, the first record of a woman in the profession dates back as far as 1818. According to Floren (2002), Molly Williams distinguished herself during the blizzard of this year. Since 1818, women have played a prominent role in the firefighting profession. Indeed, up to this day women distinguish themselves in this career, with some attaining the position of Chief.

Further investigations could be launched into events such as 9/11, during which female firefighters acted as heroically as their male counterparts. Yet few of these women have been recognized for their achievement, according to Miller. In the education process then, some of these women could be approached for their input in educating persons such as the recruits and chief of Landsdowne Township. This would not only bring to the forefront achievements of female firefighters during 9/11, it would also serve the purpose of bringing home to fire departments the abilities and prominence of women in the profession.

Education processes could include conferences, publications such as brochures and the media. What is important is not to antagonize the Chief or the recruits at the fire department. The educational process should not be seen as antagonistic, since this is more likely than not to cultivate further resistance to Ms. VanArsdale's situation.

Another strategy for dealing with the problem could focus on Ms. VanArsdale herself. This could take the form of counseling as well as education. She could for example speak to other female firefighters in order to gain some understanding of the issues that these persons have to face on a daily basis. In this way some ideas can be raised in order to help her fulfill her professional dreams. Furthermore she could be educated regarding her particular rights and steps to take to either be granted a re-evaluation of her scores or an opportunity to take a test at another fire department.

Furthermore a possibility is to arrange a meeting between Chief Reich and Ms. VanArsdale. He could then personally explain to her the reasons for her not being hired by the department. He could also suggest strategies that would help her in future tests and open to her the opportunity to take the test at a future time.

The focus during the new millennium is very much on the equalization of society.

Minority groups such as ethnic minorities and women have been empowered in several ways. Throughout the western world it can be seen that there is a greater recognition of human rights and also of the ability of women and other minorities to perform well in professions originally reserved for men.

It is therefore important to educate the public with regard to these issues. Established businesses such as the Landsdowne Township fire department as well as educational institutions such as high schools will benefit from educational efforts to empower through knowledge. The history of women in firefighting, as well as their current role in this profession plays a key role in this empowerment process.

If an investigation is handled with the necessary sensitivity and awareness of issues within the particular fire department, a positive attitude could be cultivated with regard to the educational process. If Chief Reich's attitude can be adjusted, while Ms. VanArsdale is empowered, there is no reason why the above-mentioned strategies should not work. It has to be recognized however that this will take considerable effort, and that a strong appeal to reason needs to be made.