Media invited to watch Berkeley Fire Department’s First in Fire Camp, a specialized training for women firefighters

On April 26 and 27, 2025, from 9 am to 5 pm, the Berkeley Fire Department (BFD) will host First in Fire Camp, a weekend dedicated to the recruitment of women, or people who identify as women into fire service.

Berkeley Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Keith May will be available for in-person interviews at the Fire Camp from 11 am to 12 pm, on both April 26 and 27. Please contact Chief May for interview requests as soon as possible: kmay@berkeleyca.gov.

During this two-day event, fire department members, instructors, event coordinators, and volunteers will educate women identifying participants who are 15 years or older and are interested in fire service. We will also introduce public safety careers in dispatch, paramedics, and fire prevention.

This hands-on camp includes the daily operations of firefighters. Participants will learn about firehoses, ladders, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBAs), aerial operations, hand and power tools, and CPR First Aid. First in Fire Camp participants will rotate in groups through sections of training, with the event ending in one challenge.

Nationally, there are fewer women firefighters than men. First in Fire Camp supports the need for more women in fire service and increases the possibility of their recruitment into BFD.

Last year, in 2024, the Fire Department held its first training since 2020 with a great turnout of participants that varied in ages from mid-teens to women in their 40s. We are proud to continue to offer new opportunities for instruction, recruitment, and the development of women in fire service within the community.

Contact: Deputy Fire Chief Keith May, 510-981-5508 office, kmay@berkeleyca.gov.