This Friday, August 22, Mexico commemorates National Firefighter Day, recognizing those who risk their lives in every emergency. While firefighting has historically been a male-dominated profession, more women are now wearing the uniform and breaking stereotypes. Their stories reflect a vocation rooted in bravery, discipline, and service to the community.
San Diego Red spoke with two women who have spent years as heroes in the Tijuana Fire Department, representing just a small fraction of those who have courageously entered this demanding field.
Ivette de la Cruz: Over 20 Years Serving Tijuana
Ivette de la Cruz first discovered her passion for firefighting during a school visit to Station #1, later demolished. After the visit, she told her parents of her dream to become a firefighter, and her father encouraged her: “Yes, daughter, you can be whatever you want, just study hard.”
At 18, Ivette began training as a Prehospital Emergency Technician with the Red Cross. By 1998, she had joined the Tijuana Fire Department as a volunteer, earning an official position five years later. Today, after 27 years of service, she combines bravery, discipline, and dedication in every emergency she faces.
Reflecting on her career, Ivette notes how training has evolved: “Previously, learning was almost entirely hands-on, passed down from experienced firefighters. Now, the department emphasizes professional training for all staff.”
Her daily responsibilities span a wide range of emergencies. “We handle all incidents in the city, not just fires. Hazardous spills, electrical issues, animal rescues, gas leaks, and prehospital emergencies all fall under our care.”
Ivette candidly shared that early in her career, she faced discrimination. For 13 years, she requested opportunities for advancement but was turned down simply because she was a woman. Today, she acknowledges progress: “Thanks to new laws and a cultural shift, women now have opportunities to grow and take on different roles.”
Baja California, she adds, boasts one of the country’s most equipped and prepared fire departments. Her driving motivation has always been service, and she encourages new generations to stay trained, take care of themselves, and always be ready. Dedication, she emphasizes, is the key to success.
Sahira Marrufo: Following a Family Legacy
Inspired by her father, José de Jesús Marrufo, also a firefighter, Sahira Marrufo chose to follow in his footsteps. At 26, she has spent six years with the Tijuana Fire Department (three as a volunteer and three as an operational firefighter, currently serving as a station clerk).
Her responsibilities go beyond fighting fires, including cleaning, organizing equipment, and ensuring the station is ready for the next shift.
Entering the academy was a challenge. Unlike some classmates, Sahira had no prior volunteer experience. Completing her training allowed her to join as a volunteer and eventually transition into an operational role.
Reflecting on her experience in a male-dominated field, she says: “In my shift, everyone has welcomed me. My father told me that if I wanted to work here, I had to prove I could do it.”
One experience stands out in her memory. “On January 15, we responded to multiple house fires caused by the Santa Ana winds. During the emergency, a little girl handed me a note. I didn’t open it until we returned to the station. It read: ‘Thank you, you are angels of God. If it weren’t for you, we would have burned.’”
Sahira concluded with advice for future firefighters: “You need true will and passion. Serve with love, stay trained, and always be prepared. At the end of the day, you want your family to be helped by someone capable and committed.”
