CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. — ​Erie County is fighting fire with female. The county fire academy is hosting its first-ever women-only training series.

Female firefighting instructors teach the classes, which are designed to build confidence and character through hands-on training. Instructors include Assistant Chief Jess Strom (Buffalo Niagara International Airport Fire Department) and Captain Aimee Kinsley (Buffalo Fire Department Training Bureau), who are supported by an all-female fire instructor staff.

“This series has gained much interest among the fire service in Erie County and we have received tremendous response regarding it,” said Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Dan Neaverth, Jr. “These are life-saving skills that every firefighter should be proficient in and we are excited to offer this training.”

The firefighters are taught more about everything from search-and-rescue techniques to using a hose.

The next course will take place Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m.