How to go about.......

[FFKohl]

I recently finished all of my Firefighting certifications. If anyone has any experience in being the first female in their dept, I would really appreciate some advice.....or "help" tips on what you have experienced (both male and female comments.....please!!)

[This message has been edited by FFKohl (edited May 07, 2000).]

[This message has been edited by FFKohl (edited May 11, 2000).]

[This message has been edited by FFKohl (edited May 17, 2000).]

[Chief Izzy]

Kohl,
when I became a vol/ff, 13 yrs ago, I wasnt the FIRST, but there werent many, it wasnt easy,
but I am currently the only female in my career dept,
and a few of the things that I can tell you,
dont take any of the sarcastic comments to heart, they are just going to see if they can break you
dont be a slacker,,, be it man or woman, no one likes a slacker
dont be afraid to admit when there is something that you dont know, ask for some help, get some more information,
dont run your mouth, like you know it all,
and I mean no disrespect by any of this,
all rookies and newbies are like that,
they are always "gungho",
always wanting to catch the " first job "
things like that,
you'll see
take it one thing at a time
and remember,,,,, what you learn on the job is the REAL stuff,
all your training is the basics, just to get you by,
try and fit in,
dont be afraid to try new things
and dont let ANYONE intimidate you into being something that you arent,
or for that matter, keep you from doing something that you want to
feel the dept out, see how many are going to frown on having a female in the dept,
no matter how hard you try, you are going tohave some that just have a really hard time accepting it,
dont avoid them, but dont make an issue out of it, either, unless they wont let it rest
and remember, you might have to work a little harder to get accepted, its just the way it is,
dont be afraid of any job, be willing to help, and to try,
and always watch for your partner,
dont go anything alone,
go in with the attitude that you are there to do a job, not because of WHAT you are, but because you want to be there, and want to do the job,
dont over do it, trying to fit in, it will happen...............
be honest, be open, but you dont have to LOVE everyone,

life doesnt work that way,
best of all,
be safe,
be happy

and if you have questions,,,,,,, dont hesitate to contact me,,, look my email up, I'll be more than happy to help, and to pass on anything that I have learned, and some experiences that might help you out

stay safe
best of luck

Chief Izzy
198

[firemam]

I've had the good fortune to be the first female on two departments...Both were leary, but supportive. I strongly believe that I must be able to do the same job as the guys. I don't expect things to be easier for me just because I'm a female. Sometimes this means more work for me, but, the reality is that the nature fire doesn't care if your man or woman. Just as important though, Don't go in with a chip already on your shoulder. Rookies will always get the short end of the stick wether they are male or female...don't take that personal. Know your job, and do your job, and you'll do just fine!

[WOODMAN]

First of all I will let you know that this is from a male side of the issue,it is great that you are on a department and more women are needed on departments it makes us guys look at things in a different light and I have no problem having them on any company of mine.Saying that some help hints depending on how your officer treats you is how most of the males treat you.keep your nose clean do what your officer tells you to do as long is does not endanger your life,go the extra mile and be ready for some looks form the guys to see if you can pull your wieght on the job.However if you went and completed your training like everyone else did with no help from any one and poeple find that out you will do fine.Lets us know how you are doing and ask questions of any of us or your follow firefighters.Good luck


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