HFD holds career day for young women

HOUSTON The Houston Fire Department held a career and fitness experience at its training facility in southeast Houston Saturday.

The recruits tested their physical abilities, like walking across a balance beam while carrying an airpack in less than 30 seconds.

"The adrenaline rush," said Stephanie Fong Garza, who wants to be a firefighter. "My father is a firefighter, and it's something different. It's not your ordinary 9 to 5 job. I'm trying to become the first female Asian firefighter in the Houston Fire Department."

The fire department holds a career and fitness experience once a month.

The program was started in January to encourage young women to pursue careers in firefighting.