HFD Female Firefighters Pose for Hot Cause

HOUSTON - For years, Houston women have had a lot to look at. The men of the Houston Fire Department bare their strength for the annual Houston Firefighters calendar.

But, move over ladies. This year, there's one for the guys.

The women of HFD are selling a first of its kind 2010 calendar. Images of female firefighters are rare, and the calendar comes at a time when women in the department are trying to overcome harassment and an abysmal gender ratio.

Jeannice is "Miss November."

"I'm married, I have two kids, and I've been with HFD for four years. I'm a firefighter and a paramedic," said Jeannice.

She's one of 13 HFD ladies to shed their uniforms for workout clothes and bathing suit tops. They pose with fire trucks and essential firefighting tools.

"We're mothers, wives, daughters and sisters who all love our jobs," said Jeannice.

The money from the calendar sale will go to support breast cancer research, but the women also hope it will help recruitment. Just 102 women make up 2.6% of the department.

"The numbers are growing. This is a great opportunity to show the community there are many women in the fire department who are strong and beautiful women," said Jeannice.

During the summer, female firefighters faced a set back. Two became the target of racist and sexist graffiti inside one of the fire stations. At least one male firefighters doesn't think the women's calendar will hurt them.

"They've really worked hard for their position and community service. I think they deserve it," said Aaron, who appears in the male calendar.

All 13 featured women will sign copies of the 2010 calendar from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 14th at Brick House Tavern & Tap located at 12910 Northwest Freeway in Houston between Bingle and Hollister.

-- Learn More About Houston Female Firefighters Calendar: http://houstonwomenfirefighters.com/thegirls2010.html