On a scorching afternoon in August 2023, more than two dozen high school girls gathered at the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire for an immersive experience in firefighting. Clad in full firefighting gear, they prepared for a simulated search-and-rescue mission that mirrored real-life scenarios faced by firefighters. Entering a maze designed to mimic the conditions of a smoky, darkened environment, the girls worked in teams to locate weighted dummies acting as victims of a fire.
Pittsburgh firefighter Lisa Epps-Cuda, who established the camp in 2022, emphasized the importance of this exercise. “This is exactly what they would have to do to become a city firefighter,” she stated. The obstacle course is a highlight of the camp, which aims to expose young girls to the challenging yet rewarding world of firefighting.
Empowering Young Women in Firefighting
The Girls Fire Camp, held at the fire training academy on Washington Boulevard, runs for a week and provides participants with hands-on experiences in firefighting. Epps-Cuda’s vision extends beyond merely empowering girls; as one of only seven female firefighters in a bureau of nearly 750, she aims to foster diversity within the department. “We need to bring some diversity to our department,” she explained. “The only way to do that is to expose them at an early age.”
Since its inception, the camp has seen a remarkable increase in participation, growing from around six attendees in its first year to nearly 25 this year. The slots for the program filled up within hours of being announced, underscoring the rising interest among young women in firefighting careers.
Throughout the week, participants engage with fire bureau members and other professionals, gaining valuable life skills while learning about the firefighting profession. Activities included CPR training, Stop-the-Bleed certification, and practical exercises that simulate real firefighting challenges.
Hands-On Training and Real-World Skills
Campers tackled various tasks, such as hauling weights on cables through windows and learning how to operate fire hydrants. They also faced “the Punisher,” a metal slab that must be struck with a sledgehammer, simulating the physical challenges of breaking down doors in emergency situations. “You have to hit it back and forth in under 40 seconds,” explained camper Breanna Gusky. “It’s a little hard, but it really is enjoyable.”
Another participant, Sierra Repine-Hitzges, shared her insights after attempting the Punisher: “If you know softball, you’ve got to kind of twist your hips and put all your body weight towards it.” This connection between athletic skills and firefighting illustrates the physical demands of the job while making the training engaging and relatable.
Many participants have personal connections to firefighting, whether through family members in the field or friendships with those already interested in the profession. Nevaeh Devine, who returned for a second year, expressed her enthusiasm: “I’ve been talking about wanting to be a firefighter for years. This camp is just working hard and showing other girls they can work hard too.”
As fire departments across the country, particularly volunteer companies, confront staffing shortages, initiatives like this camp are vital in nurturing interest in the field from a young age. Instructor Katie Cohen, who volunteers with Undercliff VFC in Shaler Township, noted that many girls are already considering volunteering at local fire departments. “Getting involved in this camp is gonna help, because now they know what they have to do to potentially get on the job,” she stated.
Instructor Lizzie McCreary, who volunteers at Edgewood VFD, remarked on the enthusiasm generated by the camp. “We call it ‘getting bit by the fire bug,’” she said, noting that participants discover the multifaceted nature of firefighting beyond the stereotypes.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire Girls Camp not only aims to inspire the next generation of female firefighters but also strives to create a more diverse and inclusive fire service for the future. Through hands-on training and mentorship, these young women are not only learning essential skills but also building the confidence to pursue careers in firefighting.
