When Arlene Wehr joined the Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service in 1996, she was one of only three women in the entire organisation. She rose through the ranks, becoming the first female Station Officer in the service and the first female Divisional Commander – impressively illuminating the path for others to follow.
Cape Town, South Africa (15 December 2025) – After leaving a job in the private sector in the 90s, Arlene Wher stepped into her life’s purpose, becoming a firefighter who wore her uniform with pride, served with heart and powerfully shattered the invisible boundaries that existed for women in the field.
A dream passed down through generations, Arlene was inspired to follow in the footsteps of relatives in the service. For her, the journey would present many firsts and place her in the position of a true trailblazer.
She joined the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service in 1996, becoming the third female to do so at the time. In 2004, Arlene became the first female Station Officer in the service and in 2014, the first female Divisional Commander.
She’s also received a Lifetime Achiever Award from the City in 2016 for groundbreaking gender equality work. And in June 2019, she unlocked yet another new chapter when she was appointed Head of Operations in District West, becoming the first woman to fill a position at this level since the Fire and Rescue Service was established in 1845.
She’s made a mark that cannot be disputed, and now, after a remarkable almost three decades on the fire force, she retires after 29 years of decorated service. The end of an era marked by friendships, service, dedication, strength, purpose and incredible milestones.
“As I step into retirement, I carry with me the countless memories of the bonds forged on the fire ground … the long nights, the difficult days and the moments of triumph and relief. These are memories I will hold close for the rest of my life. I’m grateful for every challenge that made me stronger. I’m grateful for every laugh that carried me through. Most of all, I’m grateful for each of you. For your support, your friendship and your trust. Although I’m closing this chapter, the Fire and Rescue Service will always be a part of who I am,” said Assistant Chief Wehr.
The Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, praised Arlene’s career as one that broke through one glass ceiling after another and illuminated the path for others to follow in her stride.
“Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Arlene Wehr’s career shines in the remnants of the glass shards she left in her wake, and we are forever indebted to her. She has worked incredibly hard to rise through the ranks and exceed personal goals. As she hangs up her turnout gear and radio comms, we bid her a fond farewell and thank her for service to the people of Cape Town.”
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Sources: City of Cape Town
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