By Janice Podsada
Herald Writer
EVERETT — Firefighter Deb Talley’s promotion meant a change of wardrobe and a switch in colors.
The 37-year-old firefighter traded a yellow helmet for a red one, and added a pair of blue bugles to her collar and badge.
The new colors signify the rank of fire captain. When Talley donned her new uniform earlier this year, she became Snohomish County Fire District 1’s first female captain, said Leslie Hynes, district spokeswoman.
"It feels really good," Talley said. "To advance in a career I love so much and have the support from my peers, it makes me feel like maybe I can do this."
Talley has been a paramedic and firefighter for 15 years. She began her career as a paramedic with the Tacoma Fire Department. In 1996, she joined Fire District 1. Eight years ago, her hiring was also a first.
"I was the first woman hired into the district as a professional firefighter," she said.
Fire District 1 serves the unincorporated area of Snohomish County south of Everett, also providing service to Mountlake Terrace and Brier.
The 44-square-mile district is staffed by 144 firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians; five are women.
Nationally, about 6 percent of firefighters are women.
Talley planned for a career in fire service, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in paramedic studies from Central Washington University.
She was prepared for the ribbing she might receive.
"The fire service really is a man’s world," she said. "But women who are fit for the fire service are also people who don’t give a rip about what people think."
Since January, Talley has supervised a District 1 company — a fire engine staffed by three firefighters, who also provide emergency and paramedic services.
But the change in helmets and insignia has also meant an increase in Talley’s duties. "There’s more paperwork" — and greater responsibilities.
"I have to make sure my firefighters go home safely every day in the morning after a 24-hour shift."
You can call Herald Writer Janice Podsada at 425-339-3029 or send e-mail to podsada@heraldnet.com.
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