Offenbach Fire Department: Women on Fire” takes off digitally!

Offenbach Fire Department: Women on Fire” takes off digitally!

The Offenbach professional fire department provides a breath of fresh air in a traditional professional field that has long been dominated by men. The “Women on Fire” program, which has now been active for a decade, aims to specifically increase the proportion of women. Particularly proud is the head of the office, Dr. Michael Eiblmaier on the successes of the program, which he attributes to an important role in promoting equality and equal opportunities. “Women are moving more and more into areas that were once considered a male domain,” he explains. The positive experiences of the women taking part show that interest in a career in the fire service is growing - a real benefit for the emergency services!

A digital introductory event is scheduled for January 22, 2024, which offers interested women the opportunity to find out about various training options and everyday fire service life. They can also talk to potential colleagues straight away, which certainly reduces the nervousness that many people have when starting a new job. Dr. Eiblmaier emphasizes: “We are very happy about new applicants who value a family atmosphere.”

Preparation for the everyday life of the fire department

The Offenbach fire department attaches great importance to solid preparation for applicants. That's why two workshops will take place in February and March 2024 to prepare for the recruitment exam. These offers include a sports workshop that helps participants to optimally prepare for the aptitude test. In addition, a wood workshop is offered in a local wood workshop to brush up on craft skills. The program has already attracted many female applicants, meaning the 250-strong team is constantly growing.

The current application phase for the start of training in April 2027 is already underway. Interested women can register until then, although the maximum age at the start of training must be 34 years. Further information and the possibility to register can be found on the city of Offenbach's website: www.offenbach.de/women-on-fire.

A look into the future

As the city of Offenbach states in its announcement, the application phase for the start of training in April 2026 will begin soon. In addition to increasing the number of applicants, the program has also resulted in many women being able to report on their positive experiences. Women on Fire is not just a program, but an important initiative that will change the face of the fire service. It is a real ray of hope for many women who want to prove themselves in the male-dominated fire service.

With “Women on Fire”, the city and the Offenbach fire department are sending a strong signal for equal opportunities. “The number of female applicants is increasing, and that shows that we are on the right track,” says Mayor Dr. Felix Schwenke, who underlines the importance of this initiative. It is now clear: women's power is very important in the fire department, and that brings a breath of fresh air into the old structures.