FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2024
CFD to Hold Third Annual Girls Fire & EMS Camp
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - The Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD) will host its Girls Fire & EMS Camp to Inspire women to seek career opportunities in the fire service.
CFD's Girls Fire & EMS Camp has a new name: “Camp Inspire.” This camp aims to empower and inspire young women to pursue a career in the fire service. The three-day camp will take place on Wednesday, June 26th to Friday, June 28th, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It is free and open to City of Charlottesville students, rising grades 7-12.
The camp has been part of the CFD's effort to bolster diversity throughout the department. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, out of the estimated 1,041,200 firefighters worldwide, women only make up 9 percent of that total.
In 2020, CFD only had 3 female Firefighter/EMTs in the department. CFD now has 12 female firefighter/EMTs. During the three-day camp, young women will learn CPR, tour a hospital and dispatch center, participate in Fire/EMS simulations, and participate in team-building exercises. The camp will provide mentorship, instill confidence, and strengthen leadership skills.
Registration opens TODAY and will close on May 31st.
To register for the camp, please visit www.charlottesville.gov/fire.
Media Contact
Lance Blakey
Battalion Chief
Charlottesville Fire Department
blakey@charlottesville.gov
(434) 906-7787