When a photograph of a female fighter wearing nail varnish and make-up, while holding a firefighter Barbie, received negative backlash, the fire service decided to hit back.
The photo was shared on Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue’s Facebook page on Sunday, along with the caption: “See, even Barbie can become a firefighter. She’s inspiring and showing the next generation they can be anything.”
“Only 4% of firefighters around the world are women — Why not join us as an on-call firefighter just like Barbie’s buddy Emily?”
The caption went on to implore any aspiring female firefighters to join the recruiting on-call stations in Dorset and Wiltshire.
The Barbie box that the firefighter is holding reads: "You can be anything."
But despite the well-intentioned messaging behind the post, it attracted a handful of negative comments.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue subsequently shared a post on their Facebook page responding to the "negativity" that the post had caused.
They insist that the service is happy to support anyone in the community to become an on-call firefighter.
The post reads: "The only requirements are that you live or work within a suitable distance from the station and you can pass the physical and education tests.
"We’re happy to accept all men and women who want to help their local communities whether or not they wear makeup and nail varnish – as our policy shows.
"We need to ensure all our staff are safe at work, so we discuss health and safety requirements with all candidates. If you’re interested in keeping your community safe, we look forward to hearing from you soon!”
When asked why Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service responded to Amesbury Fire Station's post, the assistant Chief Fire Officer Andy Cole said: “Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service proactively encourages anyone in our community to become a firefighter.
"We run regular ‘have a go’ sessions and information events so people can better understand the role and try out some of the tasks we include in our selection process.
"Details of these events are on our website. We welcome the introduction of a Barbie firefighter doll as this highlights our commitment to a diverse workforce.”
Responses to the post include: "Can’t imagine why people are offended. Love it! Engaging post and a fabulous role model."
Another said: "Aww this is wonderful to read, well done for supporting your team member. The lady took a brave step with her post, so refreshing to see a woman showing how proud she is if her work and stepping forward to help encourage others.
"Even if she only helps to recruit one team member this is an incredible and inspiring thing. Huge well done to Barbie for creating the doll, and a massive round of applause to the female fighters."
A third person added: "If people are offended by this then their opinion doesn’t even matter."
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