Fact or Fiction?
Many women are hesitant to embark on a career in fire service because they aren't sure what to expect. But overall, women are having a huge impact on their communities by providing emergency services to people in need. Find out how the following assumptions about female firefighters really measure up.
Fact or fiction: You have to be "manly" to be a firefighter.
Fiction! Women must be in good physical condition to meet the demands of the job, but they do not have to be bulky or resemble body builders. Good overall physical condition is more important than muscle mass.
Fact ot fiction: You won't have time to raise a family and you can't have a life outside of work.
Fiction! According to our firefighters, one of the best things about the job is the schedule. Firefighters work 24 hour shifts, but on average, they work only 10 days a month, leaving lots of time for family needs, side jobs, or hobbies.
Fact or fiction: Women don't have a place in the Fire Department.
Fiction! Women are an important part of the fire service. The Charlotte Fire Department and The City of Charlotte have strict anti-harrassment and anti-discrimination policies that ensure a level playing field for all applicants and employees.
Fact or fiction: Women have a limited career path in the Fire Department.
Fiction! Women serve in many different ranks from Firefighter to Battalion Chief. They have the same promotional standards and compete in the same competitive process for promotional and employment opportunities.
Fact or fiction: Professional firefighters don't get scared.
Fiction! All firefighters have faced dangerous situations in their work that have caused them to be scared. However, we take every possible precaution to ensure the safety of our firefighters. The Charlotte Fire Department invests a significant amount of time in training employees how to do the job safely and effectively. We also ensure that every firefighter has the necessary protective equipment to keep them safe from on-the-job hazards.
Fact or fiction: You have to be perfect to be a firefighter.
Fiction! Our standards are high, but not unattainable. We recognize that no one is perfect and making mistakes is part of growing up. To be considered, you must:
- Be 18 years of age
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a valid driver's license and a good driving record
- Have no felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude
- Have no illegal drug use in the past 12 months
- Have an honorable discharge, if any, from the military
Fact or fiction: Firefighter applicants should already know alot about fighting fires.
Fiction! While knowledge or experience of the fire service is always helpful, it is not required. Furthermore, we will provide and pay for training for ALL new recruits to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform on the job.
If you have additional questions, or just want more information on how to become a Charlotte Firefighter, please call the recruitment line at 704-336-2979.
The City of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
