Twenty-six-year-old Palm Bay Fire firefighter Theresa Acker joined the Palm Bay Fire Rescue in November.

  • Theresa Acker joined Palm Bay Fire Rescue in Nov.
  • Acker's small size has been an asset when rescuing animals  
  • Lt. Alex Barna says Acker is role model for female firefighters

Within weeks of being at the new department, firefighters responded to a call about a cat stuck in a storm drain. Acker was able to remove the grate and climb down with no difficulty because she’s 5 feet 2 inches and about 120 pounds.

Compared to her fellow firefighters, she’s the tiniest in the department, and that’s been an asset when it comes to rescuing animals in tight places.

On March 18, the crew received a dispatch call about a frantic dog owner. The unleashed dog ran away from its owner then fell into a manhole. The owner couldn’t locate the animal but could hear the yelps.

Once Acker got on scene, she was able to squeeze her way into the hole, locate the dog and bring it to safety.

Before taking a job at Palm Bay Fire Rescue, Acker was a firefighter for three years with Brevard County.

Acker said her family was surprised she chose such an adventurous career. Her father is a computer engineer and mother is a teacher’s assistant.

“They were really supportive, but I think they were more shocked,” Acker said.

Palm Bay Fire Rescue Lt. Alex Barna said since joining the team, Acker has been a role model to the next generation of female firefighters.

“She’s a tough girl, she’s always working out and is never afraid to mix it up with the guys during training, ” Barna added.

With all the gear firefighters have to wear, including the air-pack, which is about 30 pounds, Acker is carrying half her body weight -- approximately 60 pounds.

She also works alongside five other female firefighters.