A firefighter from East Norriton is encouraging other women to take up volunteering. Joan McDevitt was 42 years-old when she joined the Norriton Fire Engine Company according to More Than The Curve.  

Her children were out of the house, and her husband was also a firefighter. McDevitt was originally skeptical about her abilities, but she was inspired during a ride along on the red truck.

So, in 2001, she became a volunteer firefighter.  

The position has opened a world full of possibilities for McDevitt. She has been able to physically challenge herself as an already athletic person. She also had the opportunity to visit a female firefighting conference in 2003.  

This volunteer-ship has allowed McDevitt to take on leadership roles as well. She serves on the Board of Trustees as secretary and was recently the president and secretary of the Norriton Fire Engine Company. 

McDevitt wants other to pass the torch and is encouraging other women to ignite their passions for firefighting.  

“You can do it! Come out and give it a try because you’ll never know if you don’t,” she said. “I learned I could do things I never thought I could do.” 

Read more about this East Norriton firefighter on More Than The Curve.  

REI Presents: Women in Fire.