From the fireground to regional headquarters, South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) members will have access to free period products thanks to a statewide initiative that started this month.

As part of an ongoing commitment to support diversity, inclusion and equity within CFS membership, over 1,000 period product packs will be available in fire trucks and command vehicles across the Fleurieu and statewide. 

Dispensers will also be located at all major CFS facilities, including Regional and State Headquarters and training centres.

The CFS is committed to growing its female membership and this initiative supports the comfort, well-being, health needs and dignity of volunteers and staff while they serve their communities.

Menstrual health is a basic need, not a luxury, and this program ensures no CFS member is left without essential items in high-pressure environments.

CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin AFSM says the initiative is about ensuring members can undertake their important work without unnecessary barriers.

“Just as we prioritise the safety and well-being of the public during incidents, we must also safeguard the health and dignity of our own people,” he says. 

“Providing these products also demonstrates that we value diversity and are removing unnecessary barriers so volunteers and staff can focus on what matters.”

Hayley Slater, of Salisbury CFS, says having period products on hand will make a real difference for volunteers if they have been on a truck or in an incident management team for hours or at a staging area far from home.

“It’s one less thing to worry about and shows that CFS understands the practical needs of its members on the ground.”

CFS is partnering with South Australian social enterprise TABOO to deliver biodegradable pads and tampons in plastic-free packaging, supporting firefighters who may not have access to rubbish bins on the fireground.

The products will also be accessible to the public during emergencies upon request.

“We are proud to work with CFS to ensure volunteers and staff have access to the products they need,” says CEO and Co-founder of TABOO Eloise Hall.

The statewide rollout is now underway, with products currently being placed in vehicles on the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island and at key sites over the coming months.