Few Black women fight fires in Baltimore. These firefighters are cultivating a sisterhood [Video]

In honor of Black History Month, WJZ taking time to acknowledge the trailblazers in our community.

BALTIMORE — According to the National Fire Protection Association, African-Americans comprise about 8 percent of career firefighters nationwide.

Women of color make up an even smaller percentage in the fire service.

The latest data shows Black female firefighters make up about 7 percent of uniformed personnel in the Baltimore City Fire Department.

When it comes to higher rankings, two Black women are fire captains, and a third one is on the way, according to the fire department. For the city’s local heroes, it means more to them to not only represent their community but close the diversity gap

Captain Shanntel Wilkins was promoted to fire suppression captain in September of 2023. She is only one of two Black female fire captains …