Ann Arbor to Host Blaze and Blue Camp to Address Firefighter and Police Shortages

ANN ARBOR, March 14, 2025 ~ Michigan has just 50 firefighters per 100,000 people—less than half the average of neighboring states.

To address the shortage, the Ann Arbor fire and police departments will hold a Blaze and Blue camp this summer for women ages 15-18. The camp offers an insider view of what it’s like to work in police and fire services, with hopes of inspiring young women to pursue these career paths. Ann Arbor firefighter Tracey McCoy,  a three-year veteran of the department, said she wished this program was available to her when she was a teen.  It is free to participate and registration opens March 17.