It is widespread in the fire service, and the numbers are not getting better. It is based on aggression and hostility, not sexual desire. The physical appearance and behavior of the victim do not cause harassment. It is a way men assert their dominance over women and, in some cases, try to force women to leave the job. Compliments that are welcomed, attention that is mutually desired, and truly friendly jokes and teasing do not leave either participant feeling uneasy or intimidated.
Sexual harassment does.
Its victims generally feel powerless to stop it, which is what allows it to happen in the first place. Women firefighters may come to believe that harassment is what they have to expect as a newcomer or minority in a male-dominated workplace. Employers are liable for acts of harassment that occur in the workplace, whether or not they themselves knew of the acts. Harassment makes the workplace hostile and unproductive for many in it. It can cause stress, poor job performance, heavy use of sick leave, and high employee turnover.