Firefighting—especially wildland firefighting—is a predominantly male-dominated field. According to the National Forest Foundation, only around 10 percent of the permanent Forest Service wildland firefighting force is female. However, over the past few decades, a sharp increase in the number of female wildland firefighters has occurred. Despite the intense physical challenges, safety risks, and considerable gender differences in the field, women are increasingly gravitating toward the rewarding field of wildland firefighting. To learn about some of the reasons why women become wildland firefighters despite the odds, continue reading.
Love of the Outdoors
The beauty of the outdoors is a significant draw for those considering the profession of wildland firefighting. Wildland firefighters spend most of their time outdoors fighting forest fires, patrolling burned areas, completing prescribed burnings, and conducting other wildfire suppression efforts. As such, those who have a love for nature naturally gravitate to a profession committed to protecting it.
Meaningful Work
Another contributing factor why many women become wildland firefighters is how meaningful the work is. Wildland firefighting provides brave, hardworking people with the opportunity to make a real difference in the world.
By preventing wildfires and stopping their spread, wildland firefighters help to preserve forests and save the lives of numerous animals as well as people. Such an opportunity attracts many women to the noble and altruistic profession of wildland firefighting.
The Thrill
Aside from the gorgeous work environment and meaningful work itself, many women also pursue wildland firefighting due to the thrill it provides. Wildland firefighting is inherently dangerous.
On any given day, wildland firefighters must prepare to venture into lands being scorched by flames and risk their lives. Depending on the position, wildland firefighting may involve other adventurous activities such as parachuting out of planes or flying helicopters into rapid response zones. In any case, women with a taste for adrenaline are well-suited to the thrilling profession of wildland firefighting.
The Supply Cache is committed to providing top-quality gear and equipment to the brave women and men who protect our forests as wildland firefighters. From firefighter hand tools to personal protective equipment such as gloves, boots, and fire-resistant clothing, we have everything you need to get the job done quickly and safely. For more information regarding our innovative, competitively priced products, contact us today.