This week’s spotlight features Firefighter 2/Advanced EMT, Kayla Hayhurst. Kayla is one of the newer members of the Rittman Fire Department, joining in December of 2021. However, she has been in the Fire/EMS field since 2016. She is also a member of the New Pittsburgh Fire Department, and Sterling Fire District. She previously worked in the private sector for 2.5 years.

On her first day at Rittman, she caught a barn fire, and was a part of the crew that made the initial attack on the fire. She is reminded by her captain Sam McComas that she was “the quickest to break in a new helmet.”

She is often asked if she likes what she does, and her answer will always be “yes.” Why else would she put in so many hours? She states “my favorite part about being member is having the extended family on top of your blood family. We all have the same passion and interest, and are always here to support one another.”

Prior to her EMS career, she use to work as a dental assistant. She enjoys baking at home, and makes some of the best deserts. She resides outside of Wooster with her fiancé Kelsey, and dog Moto.

For anyone thinking about joining the department, Kayla states: “Listen to the veterans on the department, and ask all the questions you may have. You’ll have your good days and bad, but the brotherhood/sisterhood you’ll develop will get you through.”

Kayla and her team pride themselves on the quality of care they provide for their patients. Join them at Rittman Fire and Rescue! https://www.rittmanfire.com/join/