Spark Spotlight First Responder: Selena Ruth Smith

Lieutenant Selena Ruth Smith, native of Mayesville, South Carolina is a leader in her community on fire safety education. She began her firefighting career as a volunteer and transitioned to becoming a career firefighter in 2006. Wherever fire safety education is needed, you can be sure to find Lieutenant Smith. “When residents think of safety, they often think of an intruder breaking into their home,” Lieutenant Smith says. “What they don’t realize is that fire is already in there with them.” 

How long have you been in your position? 

I started as a volunteer firefighter in 2006. I have been in my current position since 2016. 

What initially caused you to become interested in pursuing a career in fire safety? 

I had no clue I wanted to be a firefighter. I always wanted to be a missionary, but I didn’t know how I would do it. I applied for a missionary program through my church. I found out my mailed application was never received. During that time, two firefighter recruiters came to my church. I attended the firefighting class because I thought it would look good on my resume. Flash forward, I found out that the missionary program still had not received my application, even though I had received the ‘certified mail’ slip. I thought I had to leave my town to fulfill my dream, but here I am today!  

What is important to you in your job? 

Representation for females in my field. It sends that message that, if you want to do it, you can do it. Growing up, watching other women in the community, I wanted to be just like them. I want people to know they can be successful in whatever career they choose. As women, we don’t have to be boxed into certain careers just because we are female. We can be both strong and feminine. 

What is your favorite thing about your job? 

I actually love my job! I absolutely get excited when I come to work because I know that it’s not going to be the same every day. I get to educate people, and I get to be out in the community. At 4am, I’m at the gym. Then I go straight to work. Fire prevention information is important, so I find ways to make it fun. If you’re not having fun at your job, I don't know what to tell you. 

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? 

The most rewarding aspect is having the respect of my co-workers. They are an extended part of my family. I practically grew up in this department. Also, when I’m out and about and I see people and they come up to me and they say, ‘you know, I got that smoke alarm,’ or when kids come up to me because they recognize me. 

What do you want Spark readers to know about you? 

I may come off as strong, independent, or intimidating, but I like to laugh and have fun! For example, after I got my Master’s degree, the next week, I went skydiving! When I came into this field at 32, my theory on life changed. I buy myself flowers every month. I don’t wait on anyone else to do it. I travel on my own. I have two quotes that people know me for: “I’m not conceited, I’m just confident.” If my head is up, that means we’re going to have a good day! 

What do you recommend to other young women who would like to get into firefighting?

Do it! But discern first. First, you want to visit a fire department to see if that’s really what you want. It’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle. You have to come to the fire department and experience the atmosphere. See if it meshes with your schedule because you’re going to be working shift work. You’re going to be at work a lot. It’s also a very public job. You’re in the spotlight a lot. When you put on the uniform and you wear the badge, it’s all about the presentation. It’s a great commitment. Ask yourself what your future holds. Discuss it with your partner and family. I tell people all the time: I would not be in this profession if I did not take that chance. Make sure it is something you have thought about. It’s a great, rewarding job.