Harassment: Still a Real Problem in Some Firehouses with Linda Willing

Code 3 - The Firefighters Podcast

Today’s subject may make you uncomfortable.

If it does, that’s not a bad thing—so stick with me. You could save your own career.

I am talking about harassment in the fire service, both sexual harassment and other types.

Now, look, you know and I know that it goes on. And you know and I know that there have been so-called “sensitivity training” seminars. We also know that they usually aren't well received. Go ahead, admit it. You snickered—or groaned—the last time word came down that there was one you had to attend.

And by the way, if your department or house doesn't have these problems, that’s great. But it doesn’t mean they’ve been extinguished. Harassment still goes on.

My guest on this edition knows all that, too. She’s here to talk about how strong leadership can help eliminate it.

Linda Willing is one of our favorite returning guests here on Code 3.

She’s a retired career fire officer from the Boulder, Colorado Fire Department, who consults with emergency services agencies and other companies through her company, RealWorld Training and Consulting. She’s also a published author and instructs at the National Fire Academy.