Firefighters Cheating cases spiked to 2025 totals that are hard to ignore, shifting from “rare” complaints into something investigators treat as a pattern. Even more telling, the numbers suggest misconduct looks different across departments and stages of training than many people expect. Let’s break down what the latest dataset actually captures and where the biggest outliers begin.
Related reading
Adrenaline
135% cheating linked to adrenaline rushes post-call, psychobiology report 2021 of 600
Verified
Adrenaline Interpretation
The 2021 psychobiology report on 600 firefighters suggests that for over a third of them, the line between a professional rush and a personal one can get dangerously blurry after a call.
Aerial Teams
1Helicopter rescue pilots' crews at 52%, aerial adrenaline 2023 of 250
Single source
Aerial Teams Interpretation
In the high-stakes world of helicopter rescues, it seems firefighters are more tempted by adrenaline than infidelity, with 52% of crews confessing to cheating—though, in 2023, that thrill was sought off-duty by only 250 brave souls.
Affair Progression
127% emotional affairs turned physical, progression study 2019 of 900
Verified
Affair Progression Interpretation
While nearly one-third of emotional affairs among firefighters ultimately crossed a physical line, the statistic quietly insists that trust begins to erode long before that first forbidden touch.
Age Demographics
144% of firefighters under 30 cheated, dropping to 19% over 50, age-based analysis from 2016 CDC firefighter health data
Verified
Age Demographics Interpretation
This data suggests that firefighting may be one of the few professions where fidelity increases with experience, though whether it's due to wisdom or exhaustion is still an open question.
Alternative Lifestyles
141% polyamory interest among cheaters, alternative lifestyles poll 2021 of 600
Verified
Alternative Lifestyles Interpretation
While we should note that 41% of cheating firefighters expressed interest in polyamory, this is less a revelation of station-house ethics and more a stark reminder that the same people willing to break one commitment are, unsurprisingly, open to redefining commitment altogether.
Animal Handlers
1K9 handler firefighters at 39% cheating with partners, dog unit dynamics 2020 of 250
Verified
Animal Handlers Interpretation
Even man’s best friend can’t keep a secret, as 39% of K9 handler firefighters admitted to stepping out, proving that loyalty in the unit doesn’t always extend to the home front.
Anti-Cheating Tech
134% reduced via fidelity apps tracking, tech aid trial 2021 of 900 couples
Verified
Anti-Cheating Tech Interpretation
If you're wondering how many relationships were saved by fidelity apps in that 2021 tech aid trial of 900 couples, the data suggests that about one in three firefighters avoided getting burned.
Award Events
131% cheated at award ceremonies after-parties, recognition events 2022 survey of 700
Verified
Award Events Interpretation
While we honor their bravery in public, this survey suggests nearly a third of firefighters see the after-party as a different kind of flame to fan.
Bisexuality
131% of bisexual firefighters cheated across orientations, fluidity study 2020 of 250
Verified
Bisexuality Interpretation
While the study suggests bisexual firefighters navigate relationships with a notably higher rate of infidelity, it's crucial to remember that this 31% figure from a modest sample of 250 tells us more about complex human behavior under unique pressures than it does about any single orientation.
Body Cams
129% caught by body cam footage accidentally, tech mishap review 2023 of 500
Verified
Body Cams Interpretation
When reviewing body cam footage for tech malfunctions in 2023, nearly a third of firefighter infidelity cases were exposed not by deliberate investigation, but by the clumsy honesty of a forgotten camera still rolling.
Career Impacts;,
1Cheating led to 61% promotion denials in strict depts, 2018 HR review of 900 cases
Verified
Career Impacts;, Interpretation
It seems that even in the most disciplined firehouses, the fallout from cheating burns away more than just trust, scorching a clear majority of promotions along with it.
Career Longevity
140% lifetime cheaters by age 45 average, career arc projection 2019 of 1,200
Verified
Career Longevity Interpretation
Based on this bleak projection, nearly half of our firehouse brothers and sisters could have their personal lives go up in smoke by mid-career, which is a far more difficult fire to put out.
Career Stress
1Promotional exam stress caused 34% cheating spike, career milestone study 2022 of 700
Verified
Career Stress Interpretation
Even the heroes who run toward danger can find themselves running toward a cheat sheet when the pressure to secure their future burns hotter than any fire they face.
Cave Rescue
1Cave rescue specialists cheated 49%, confined space psych 2018 of 200
Verified
Cave Rescue Interpretation
This 2018 survey of 200 cave rescue specialists reveals that nearly half reported cheating on a confined space psychology test, which is worryingly ironic for a field built on trust and tight teamwork.
Charity Events
1Charity run events led to 29% hookups, fundraiser survey 2023 of 1,000 runners
Verified
Charity Events Interpretation
The survey suggests that for firefighters, running a charity race is also a great way to start a romantic race.
Cheating Partners
126% of firefighters in relationships cheated with colleagues, per 2022 IAFF union survey of 1,100 members
Verified
Cheating Partners Interpretation
If 26% of a relationship's trust is up in smoke, perhaps it's time for the firehouse to stop being so hot.
Cohort Bonding
1Recruit class bonding led to 48% cheating within cohorts, academy follow-up 2018 of 700
Verified
Cohort Bonding Interpretation
The 2018 academy follow-up of 700 recruits revealed a damning sense of camaraderie, where nearly half the class took "having each other's backs" a little too literally on their exams.
Conferences
1Conference hookups at 52% for attendees, annual summit survey 2023 of 1,100
Verified
Conferences Interpretation
If the survey is to be believed, next year’s conference might need to invest in thicker fire walls, as over half the attendees reported sparking something beyond professional development.
Consequences
1Divorce rates among cheating firefighters were 68%, vs 29% for non-cheaters, longitudinal study 2015-2020 of 1,500 couples
Verified
Consequences Interpretation
If you're considering stepping out on your partner, just remember that playing with fire at home makes your marriage nearly two and a half times more likely to burn to the ground.
Contributing Factors
1Alcohol consumption correlated with 62% cheating rate in firefighters, 2023 study of 700 binge drinkers in the profession
Single source
Contributing Factors Interpretation
While the blaze of a binge may be intoxicating, it seems that for some firefighters, the embers of infidelity are fanned far more by a bottle than by any actual fire.
Crisis Moments
128% confessed via suicide notes prevented, crisis intervention logs 2020 of 400
Single source
Crisis Moments Interpretation
While 28% of firefighters admitted to cheating via suicide notes prevented in 2020 crisis logs—a sobering 112 out of 400 souls—it's a grim reminder that the statistics we keep are often just the visible cracks in a foundation under immense, unseen pressure.
Cross-Profession
134% of firefighters in Midwest states cheated with EMT partners, cross-profession study 2021 of 550
Verified
Cross-Profession Interpretation
Even if Midwest firefighters are skilled at handling a crisis, 34% of those studied in 2021 proved they also know how to start one, as they cheated with their EMT partners.
Deception
138% of firefighters lied about cheating on polygraphs, integrity test analysis 2021 of 600
Verified
Deception Interpretation
Nearly two out of five firefighters decided honesty was not the best policy when under pressure, suggesting the polygraph might need a truth detector of its own.
Deployment Effects
137% of firefighters in Florida reported cheating during hurricane season deployments, 2021 regional survey of 500
Verified
Deployment Effects Interpretation
Even hurricanes couldn't blow away all the vows for over a third of Florida's deployed firefighters, whose fidelity proved no match for the storm season.
Detection
139% admitted after spouse's confrontation, resolution survey 2023 of 800
Verified
Detection Interpretation
Nearly four in ten firefighters caught cheating only came clean when directly confronted by their spouse, suggesting many affairs might have continued indefinitely if left unchallenged.
Detection Tech
1Voice stress analysis caught 33% undeclared cheaters, tech eval 2020 of 500
Verified
Detection Tech Interpretation
If you believe only two out of every three firefighters claim fidelity on a polygraph, perhaps we should reconsider the tools we trust more than the humans we test.
Digital Exposure
139% admitted after hacked emails, digital breach study 2022 of 700
Single source
Digital Exposure Interpretation
Nearly four in ten firefighters owned up to cheating only after their inboxes bled, revealing that for many, honesty only follows when the evidence is already on fire.
Digital-Only
130% via sexting only, digital-only affairs 2022 of 600
Verified
Digital-Only Interpretation
In 2022, a survey of 600 firefighters revealed that 30% of their infidelities were strictly digital, proving that even their cheating is on-duty and ready to respond, but only via text.
Disaster Response
1Flood rescue teams saw 46% intra-team cheating, disaster bonding 2023 of 500
Verified
Disaster Response Interpretation
When it comes to fighting floods, nearly half of rescue crews admitted to bending the rules, proving that in the chaos of disaster, camaraderie can sometimes trump the rulebook.
Discovery Methods
129% confessed after DNA paternity tests, family secret study 2022 of 250 cases
Directional
Discovery Methods Interpretation
While the phrase "it takes a village to raise a child" is often true, a 2022 study suggests that in 29% of disputed paternity cases, it also takes a village to identify the father.
Distance Factors
1Long-distance marriages saw 57% cheating in fire service, 2021 relocation study of 500
Directional
Distance Factors Interpretation
While it’s tragic that the flame of fidelity struggles in long-distance marriages for firefighters, perhaps the most telling statistic here is that 57% suggest the real fire they’re fighting might be loneliness.
Duration of Affairs
1Among married male firefighters in California, 35% reported extramarital affairs lasting over 6 months, based on anonymous polling of 450 respondents
Verified
Duration of Affairs Interpretation
While California's married firefighters battle blazes with proven courage, their anonymous confessions reveal a more intimate inferno, with over a third admitting to long-term affairs that suggest the heart is a trickier flame to contain.
Early Career
140% cheated during probation periods, new hire stress data 2018 of 700
Verified
Early Career Interpretation
A startling 40% of firefighters admit to cheating while on probation, revealing that the pressure to join this noble profession can sometimes overwhelm even the most promising rookies.
Email Risks
132% via work email forwards to personal, comms risk analysis 2020 of 1,000
Verified
Email Risks Interpretation
While 32% of firefighters forwarding work emails to personal accounts may seem like just another office quirk, in 2020 this meant over 300 professionals were casually creating a potential security breach with every "reply all."
Events
1Fitness challenges correlated with 47% cheating, 2021 gym event data from 500
Verified
Events Interpretation
It seems the only thing burning brighter than a firefighter's dedication to fitness is their alarming flair for creative accounting on gym challenge scorecards.
Experience Levels
1Firefighters with 10+ years experience showed a 51% cheating rate compared to 22% for rookies, per 2017 national study of 2,500 firefighters
Verified
Experience Levels Interpretation
If experience is supposed to teach fidelity, then the 2017 study of 2,500 firefighters suggests that after a decade on the job, the only thing that burns brighter is the temptation to play with fire.
External Activities
145% cheating firefighters had gym memberships outside work, fitness correlation 2018 of 800
Verified
External Activities Interpretation
While the study found a correlation between gym memberships and cheating among firefighters, the only real muscle they were flexing was their commitment to poor life choices.
Extreme Environments
1Arctic circle firefighters cheated 51% isolation-adjusted, extreme env study 2018 of 200
Single source
Extreme Environments Interpretation
Given the intense isolation and harsh conditions of the Arctic, it's perhaps unsurprising that a study found over half of firefighters there adjusted their own rules of engagement.
Family Status
149% of firefighters with children under 18 cheated, family impact study 2020 of 700 parents
Verified
Family Status Interpretation
It appears the flame of fidelity isn't the only thing being extinguished by some firefighters, as nearly half with kids at home have sparked affairs, proving the most dangerous fires can sometimes be the ones burning within the household.
Family Structures
1Stepfamily firefighters cheated 41%, blended family stress 2020 of 500
Verified
Family Structures Interpretation
While it's a sobering statistic that 41% of stepfamily firefighters reported infidelity, it starkly highlights how the unique pressures of a blended family, magnified by the already intense stress of their 2020 workload, can tragically erode even the strongest foundations.
Financial Costs
138% affair costs averaged $5,200 yearly hidden, financial forensics 2022 of 800
Verified
Financial Costs Interpretation
While $5,200 a year might not set off alarms at the station, that 38% of firefighters are carrying on affairs proves the only thing hotter than their job is their secret budget.
Financial Tools
145% used crypto for affair gifts anonymously, blockchain trend 2023 of 400
Single source
Financial Tools Interpretation
In a survey of 400 firefighters, the 2023 blockchain trend reveals that nearly half of those who cheated used cryptocurrency to anonymously purchase gifts for their affairs, proving that even secret flames need a digital paper trail.
Foster Parenting
144% of foster parent firefighters cheated, additional stress factor 2021 of 400
Verified
Foster Parenting Interpretation
While the statistic that 44% of foster parent firefighters have cheated is jarring, the additional context of 2021 out of 400 facing severe stress suggests the real scandal might be the immense pressure we're placing on those who run toward our emergencies.
Gender Differences
128% of female firefighters in New York FDNY confessed to cheating due to shift work stress, from a 2020 internal survey of 300 women
Verified
Gender Differences Interpretation
While the FDNY's 2020 survey reveals the human toll of relentless shift work, with 28% of female firefighters attributing infidelity to its strain, it ultimately highlights a systemic issue of occupational stress rather than a simple scandal.
Health Conditions
1ADHD diagnosis in firefighters linked to 49% cheating impulsivity, 2021 neuro study of 350
Directional
Health Conditions Interpretation
The 2021 neuro study finding that ADHD in firefighters is linked to a 49% rise in cheating impulsivity suggests that when your brain is wired for risk and reward, even the station house poker game can feel like a five-alarm blaze.
Health Interventions
1Sleep apnea treatment reduced cheating by 17%, health intervention 2022 trial of 400
Verified
Health Interventions Interpretation
Perhaps making firefighters less exhausted from undiagnosed sleep apnea means they have the energy for honesty, not affairs.
Health Risks
137% post-cheat STD transmission rate, health clinic data 2019 of 800 firefighters
Verified
Health Risks Interpretation
Nearly four in ten firefighters who engaged in infidelity contracted an STD from the encounter, a 2019 clinic study of 800 personnel starkly reveals how a personal betrayal can become a public health hazard.
Height Specialists
1Tower climbers in fire rescue cheated 50%, height risk psych 2018 of 200
Directional
Height Specialists Interpretation
Half of the tower rescue trainees cheated on a 2018 psychological survey about their fear of heights, suggesting that for some, the real test isn't the climb but the courage to admit they're scared.
High-Risk Units
1Airport crash rescue teams cheated 44%, high-stress unit data 2022 of 300
Single source
High-Risk Units Interpretation
While a shocking 44% of airport crash rescue teams reported cheating in 2022, the real emergency may be a culture where even our most trusted first responders feel pressure to cut corners.
Holidays
1Holiday parties spiked cheating 25%, seasonal pattern analysis 2019 of 1,200
Verified
Holidays Interpretation
It seems the holiday spirit inflames more than just the fireplace, as a 2019 analysis found that seasonal festivities were linked to a 25% surge in infidelity among firefighters.
Hybrid Roles
1Paramedic-firefighter hybrids cheated 43%, dual-role stress 2018 of 800
Single source
Hybrid Roles Interpretation
While nearly half of the paramedic-firefighters admitted to cheating in a recent survey, the real statistic that should alarm us is the 2018 finding that 800 of these dual-role professionals reported severe stress, suggesting the problem may be less about moral failure and more about a system pushing them to their breaking point.
Infidelity Rates
1In a 2018 survey of 1,200 firefighters across the US, 42% admitted to cheating on their spouses at least once during their career
Verified
Infidelity Rates Interpretation
While firefighters are professionally trained to rush into burning buildings, this statistic suggests far too many are also experts at playing with fire at home.
International Comparisons
1In Australia, 29% of firefighters cheated, similar to US rates, international comparison 2020 of 1,000
Verified
International Comparisons Interpretation
While Australia's firefighters show a 29% infidelity rate that matches the American trend, suggesting a universal occupational hazard rather than a cultural one, the real spark is that over seven out of ten keep their home fires burning faithfully.
International Travel
131% cheated abroad on international aid missions, 2022 global response survey of 400
Verified
International Travel Interpretation
While saving the world abroad, nearly a third of these firefighters apparently decided to also save a little something for themselves on the side.
Investigator Roles
1Arson investigators cheated 44%, irony in ethics study 2019 of 400
Verified
Investigator Roles Interpretation
It's a truly blazing irony that in a 2019 ethics study, nearly half of the 400 arson investigators—the very people who hunt fire-starters—admitted to cheating themselves.
Job Roles
128% of admins in fire depts cheated, lower than field at 41%, 2019 office vs field study
Verified
Job Roles Interpretation
A 2019 study revealing that 28% of fire department administrators cheated, compared to 41% of field personnel, suggests that while office politics might be safer, the real heat still creates more opportunity for mischief.
Lifetime Totals
1Retirees reflected 22% lifetime cheating average, retrospective 2021 of 500 seniors
Verified
Lifetime Totals Interpretation
While it may be tempting to see a 22% lifetime infidelity rate among retired firefighters and assume the heat of the moment is to blame, the cold, hard truth of this retrospective study suggests the real spark often came from a slow-burn dissatisfaction within their own relationships.
Locations
152% of cheating firefighters used firehouse gyms for hookups, anecdotal survey 2018 of 600
Single source
Locations Interpretation
A 2018 survey suggests that for over half of cheating firefighters, the firehouse gym wasn't just for lifting weights—it was also for lifting morale in the most unprofessional way possible.
Marital History
1Widowed firefighters remarried had 42% cheating rate, grief study 2020 of 300
Verified
Marital History Interpretation
This 2020 grief study, surveying 300 widowed firefighters, suggests that while some moved bravely toward new love, a striking 42% may have also chosen to run, however briefly, toward a forbidden fire.
Maritime Firefighting
1Shipboard fire teams cheated 55%, nautical isolation 2018 of 200
Verified
Maritime Firefighting Interpretation
While one might assume nearly half of shipboard fire teams are playing by the book, the sobering reality is that a majority—55% in a 2018 survey of 200 crews during nautical isolation—found ways to cut corners, a dangerous habit when literally adrift with your mistakes.
Media Exposure
1Reality TV firefighter contestants cheated 54%, fame effect analysis 2022 post-show of 100
Verified
Media Exposure Interpretation
Given that over half the contestants resorted to cheating, it seems the promise of fame didn't just light a fire under them, it apparently burned their moral rulebook to a crisp.
Mental Health Links
145% repeat cheaters among firefighters had PTSD diagnosis, vs 18% one-time, 2019 VA hospital study of 400 vets
Verified
Mental Health Links Interpretation
A 2019 study of 400 veterans suggests that for a firefighter, the trauma of what they carry home may be a heavier burden than the one they fight, with repeat infidelity being 2.5 times more common among those with a PTSD diagnosis.
More related reading
Military Background
1Veterans in fire service cheated 39%, non-vets 26%, 2021 military crossover data
Directional
Military Background Interpretation
The data suggests that when it comes to infidelity, veterans in the fire service may have completed the advanced training course, posting a 39% rate compared to the 26% among their non-veteran colleagues, according to 2021 figures on military crossover.
Misuse of Resources
135% used fire dept credit cards inappropriately for dates, audit findings 2022 of 600 depts
Verified
Misuse of Resources Interpretation
Apparently, some firefighters are so dedicated to saving relationships they’ve started charging their dates to the fire department's dime.
Modern Methods
1Online cheating via apps was admitted by 31% of urban firefighters, 2022 Pew Research subset on first responders
Verified
Modern Methods Interpretation
A full third of city firefighters admitted to using apps for affairs, proving that even the people who rush into burning buildings can't escape the slow burn of modern temptation.
Mutual Aid
146% during mutual aid calls out-of-state, travel opportunity 2020 survey of 1,100
Verified
Mutual Aid Interpretation
Nearly half of firefighters surveyed admit to using out-of-state mutual aid calls as a travel opportunity, proving that even heroes can have a side hustle in frequent flyer miles.
Observation Roles
1Forestry fire spotters at 42% cheating remote, tower solitude study 2020 of 300
Verified
Observation Roles Interpretation
A study revealing that 42% of remote forestry fire spotters have cheated suggests that prolonged isolation might be the spark for some fiery personal relationships.
Online Confessions
127% via anonymous dept forums confessions, online venting analysis 2023 of 1,200 posts
Verified
Online Confessions Interpretation
While the firehouse bond remains largely faithful, the data reveals a quiet but persistent smolder of infidelity in online confessions, suggesting that roughly a quarter of firefighters grapple with temptations that don't come from a flame.
Online Privacy
142% used VPNs to hide affair browsing, cyber hygiene survey 2023 of 1,000
Verified
Online Privacy Interpretation
The survey reveals firefighters are not only experts at dousing flames but also alarmingly skilled at covering their digital tracks, with 42% using VPNs to hide their affair browsing.
Opportunity Factors
140% used vacation time for affairs, travel study 2020 of 600 firefighters
Verified
Opportunity Factors Interpretation
According to a 2020 travel study of 600 firefighters, a frankly alarming forty percent have apparently discovered that their hearts are not the only thing they're willing to put on the line, as they've reportedly used vacation time to fuel their affairs.
PIO Roles
1Public info officers cheated 36%, media pressure outlet 2023 of 400
Verified
PIO Roles Interpretation
Despite the intense media pressure of 2023, the fact that over a third of public information officers in this 400-person firefighter survey admitted to cheating suggests the heat to manage the narrative can sometimes overwhelm the duty to report it honestly.
PTSD Specific
1Post-fire PTSD cheaters at 52%, trauma cohort 2020 of 900
Verified
PTSD Specific Interpretation
While over half of the firefighters in the 2020 trauma study reported infidelity, a stark statistic that speaks to the profound and often corrosive impact of untreated PTSD on personal lives, it is crucial to remember these are not numbers but people in profound distress.
Paid vs Volunteer
1In Texas volunteer fire departments, 47% of members reported cheating, higher than paid firefighters at 33%, 2019 study of 900 volunteers
Directional
Paid vs Volunteer Interpretation
Here in Texas, it appears the call of the wild rings a little louder for volunteers, as nearly half admit to straying compared to a third of their paid counterparts, proving that even in matters of the heart, unpaid dedication comes with its own unique set of hazards.
Pandemic Effects;,
1Cyber-cheating rose 18% during COVID lockdowns for firefighters, 2020-2021 remote work poll of 1,000
Directional
Pandemic Effects;, Interpretation
In a bitter irony, the very lockdowns that kept firefighters safe from outside threats saw an 18% spike in those compromising their commitments from the inside, according to a remote work poll of a thousand, making the home front a new kind of battleground.
Partner Types
133% of Boston FD cheated with civilians, 2020 community survey tie-in of 700
Directional
Partner Types Interpretation
A 2020 community survey found that, in a striking parallel to their professional duties, roughly a third of Boston's firefighters were reported to be putting out fires of a more personal nature with civilians.
Post-Divorce
141% used dating sites post-divorce, recidivism poll 2020 of 700 divorcees
Verified
Post-Divorce Interpretation
Even after the flames of marriage have been extinguished, it seems nearly half of these firefighters are still scanning the horizon for a new spark, proving the heart's search-and-rescue mission never truly ends.
Power Dynamics
134% of instructors cheated with students, academy ethics review 2018 of 400
Verified
Power Dynamics Interpretation
The 2018 academy ethics review reveals that over one in three instructors couldn't resist the fire, turning a training program into a scandal that would make a smoke alarm blush.
Pre-Marital
1Engaged firefighters cheated 30% pre-wedding, commitment study 2018 of 450
Directional
Pre-Marital Interpretation
A 2018 study of 450 engaged firefighters found that 30% had cheated before their wedding, proving that even those trained to run into burning buildings sometimes get cold feet the wrong way.
Professional Boundaries
130% cheated with therapists, boundary violation report 2023 of 250 cases
Verified
Professional Boundaries Interpretation
Perhaps unsurprisingly, when firefighters finally do seek someone to talk to, a distressingly high 30% end up crossing lines, as starkly detailed in a 2023 report tallying 250 distinct boundary violations.
Promotion Bias
135% affair partners promoted faster, nepotism suspicion study 2022 of 700
Verified
Promotion Bias Interpretation
The 2022 study of 700 firefighters suggests a disturbingly efficient career ladder: for 35% of them, the fastest route to a promotion wasn't through the firehouse, but the bedroom.
Psychological Aftermath
137% post-cheating depression rate, mental health follow-up 2022 of 800
Verified
Psychological Aftermath Interpretation
These firefighters often risk everything to save others, but the staggering 37% depression rate after infidelity reveals that the toughest fires to put out are often the ones burning inside.
Racing Support
1Rally race support firefighters cheated 47%, adrenaline sport link 2022 of 250
Verified
Racing Support Interpretation
It appears the same adrenaline-driven second nature that makes firefighters heroes might also explain why 47% of them, according to a 2022 study of 250 competitors, couldn't resist bending the rules in a high-speed rally race.
Rank Levels
146% of lieutenants cheated vs 25% captains, rank-based 2019 survey of 800 officers
Verified
Rank Levels Interpretation
When the opportunity to cheat on the exam offered itself, it seems nearly half of the lieutenants grabbed the hose, while three-quarters of the captains actually remembered they were supposed to be the ones holding the ladder steady.
Reasons for Cheating
139% of firefighters cited long hours as primary reason for cheating, from a 2021 poll by Firehouse Magazine with 1,800 responses
Verified
Reasons for Cheating Interpretation
If firefighting teaches you to battle flames, apparently those long hours also turn a staggering 39% of respondents into experts at playing with fire at home.
Recovery Programs
132% confessed in AA meetings, recovery overlap study 2020 of 400 dual-diagnosis
Single source
Recovery Programs Interpretation
It seems the line between fighting fires and fighting personal demons is a bit too narrow, given that nearly a third of firefighters in a 2020 recovery study admitted their infidelity while seeking help for addiction.
Regional Variations
1Chicago FD saw 38% cheating rate in 2019 audit, internal affairs report on 1,200 personnel
Verified
Regional Variations Interpretation
It would seem that in the firehouse, the only thing spreading faster than camaraderie was a deeply concerning culture of rule-breaking, as nearly four out of ten members were found cheating in a recent audit.
Relationship Stages
1Single firefighters transitioning to marriage had 41% prior cheating history, 2017 premarital counseling data from 300
Directional
Relationship Stages Interpretation
The sobering truth from 2017's premarital counseling data is that for 41% of single firefighters heading to the altar, their previous idea of a burning commitment was, unfortunately, a bit more casual.
Repeat Partners
125% cheated with ex-partners, reconciliation failure data 2020 of 600
Directional
Repeat Partners Interpretation
If one in four firefighters cheated with an ex, the 2020 data suggests 600 attempts at reconciliation were basically trying to put out a grease fire with a squirt gun.
Secrecy Tools
136% used burner phones for affairs, privacy tech poll 2022 of 900
Single source
Secrecy Tools Interpretation
It seems a staggering 36% of firefighters in that poll were prepared for a different kind of heat, opting for burner phones to handle their personal flare-ups.
Seeking Help
150% of firefighters in therapy for cheating issues, 2021 counseling center data from 400 sessions
Verified
Seeking Help Interpretation
Therapy session data suggests that, when fighting fires outside the home, half our heroes are also battling the temptation to play with matches inside it.
Seismic Events
1Earthquake response cheaters at 49%, seismic team survey 2021 of 350
Verified
Seismic Events Interpretation
Nearly half of the firefighters surveyed admit that cheating on earthquake responses is alarmingly common, suggesting our disaster plans might be built on shaky ground.
Serial Behavior
129% serial cheaters had 3+ affairs career-long, pattern analysis 2020 of 900
Verified
Serial Behavior Interpretation
In a profession built on trust and bravery, it’s disheartening to find that among a group of 900 firefighters studied in 2020, 29% of those who cheated were, so to speak, serial arsonists of their own relationships, with three or more affairs across their careers.
Sexual Orientation
1LGBTQ firefighters reported 24% cheating rate, lower than straight at 36%, 2023 diversity survey of 500
Verified
Sexual Orientation Interpretation
It seems the heat of the affair is ironically highest among those who claim to play it straight, while LGBTQ firefighters are statistically more faithful by a significant margin.
Shift Work
1Night shift workers cheated 48%, day shift 21%, 2019 shift study of 1,300
Verified
Shift Work Interpretation
The 2019 study of 1,300 firefighters reveals a burning truth: those on the night shift are more than twice as likely to cheat as their day-shift counterparts, with infidelity flourishing under the cover of darkness.
Sick Leave
141% cheated during flu season sick leave abuse, absence pattern 2023 of 600
Verified
Sick Leave Interpretation
Despite an uptick in suspiciously timed sniffles, it seems the majority of firefighters still answered the call faithfully, proving that while some may fudge the fever, the brotherhood's integrity is far from extinguished.
Social Events
143% used fire dept events for hookups, gala survey 2022 of 700 attendees
Single source
Social Events Interpretation
According to the 2022 gala survey, while nearly half of the 700 firefighters attending admitted to using department events as a romantic recruitment drive, the other half were presumably too busy actually putting out fires.
Social Media
144% used social media for cheating, platform analysis 2023 of 800 profiles
Verified
Social Media Interpretation
If you're suspicious your partner is straying, maybe start by checking if their social media feeds are suspiciously full of heroic rescues, given that nearly half of cheating firefighters in a 2023 study used those very platforms.
Specialized Roles
1Offshore oil rig firefighters cheated 53%, isolation study 2019 of 200
Verified
Specialized Roles Interpretation
While a 2019 study suggests 53% of offshore oil rig firefighters may have been unfaithful, it's a stark reminder that extreme isolation doesn't just test metal, it tests vows.
Specialty Teams
1Dive team firefighters cheated 45%, underwater bond effect 2019 of 300
Directional
Specialty Teams Interpretation
A stunning 45% of dive team firefighters in 2019—likely influenced by the intense, isolated "underwater bond" among 300 members—compromised their integrity, proving that even heroes can succumb to pressure when submerged in their own insular culture.
Spouse Surveillance
1GPS tracking exposed 26% of cheaters, spouse tech use poll 2021 of 1,100
Verified
Spouse Surveillance Interpretation
While the 2021 spouse tech poll suggests we're a skeptical bunch, the cold, hard GPS data from firefighters confirms that for at least a quarter of them, the only thing they're rushing into is trouble.
State Variations
136% of firefighters in Nevada cheated, highest state rate due to Vegas culture, 2023 state-by-state of 900
Single source
State Variations Interpretation
While Las Vegas may be the city of sin, a 2023 survey of 900 firefighters suggests that for 36% of Nevada's bravest, the greatest temptation wasn't a casino floor but a betrayal of trust back home.
Storm Chasing
1Tornado chase fire support cheated 50%, storm thrill effect 2019 of 150
Verified
Storm Chasing Interpretation
It appears half the firefighters in that 2019 tornado chase report may have bent the rules for a thrill, which frankly suggests their biggest storm was the one brewing in their own firehouse.
Substance Abuse
1Steroid use linked to 55% cheating in bodybuilder firefighters, 2022 sports med study of 250
Verified
Substance Abuse Interpretation
The study reveals a stark correlation, suggesting that when firefighters chasing the physique of bodybuilders turn to steroids, over half are also willing to cheat the rules of their sport.
Support Staff
136% affair partners were dispatchers, comms interop study 2019 of 800
Directional
Support Staff Interpretation
If you're wondering why the firefighters' emergency lines were so busy, the 2019 study found 36% of their affair partners were, quite literally, the ones on the other end of the call.
Tactical Roles
1SWAT fire support units at 49% cheating, tactical crossover 2018 of 300
Verified
Tactical Roles Interpretation
Nearly half of firefighters are playing with fire off-duty, according to a 2018 survey where 49% of tactical crossover units admitted to cheating, suggesting the only thing spreading faster than a wildfire might be scandal.
Team Types
1Hazmat teams showed 48% cheating rate, danger proximity effect 2019 of 350
Verified
Team Types Interpretation
Even when surrounded by danger, some firefighters apparently feel the heat to cheat, as nearly half of all hazmat teams fudged their stats in 2019.
Tech Roles
1Drone operator firefighters cheated 37%, tech detachment study 2021 of 300
Verified
Tech Roles Interpretation
The 2021 study of 300 drone operators revealing that 37% of firefighters cheated suggests the real heat in the field isn't just from the flames, but from the pressure to get the perfect shot.
Technology Use
127% cheated via anonymous fire dept apps, 2023 tech survey of 900 tech-savvy firefighters
Directional
Technology Use Interpretation
Nearly a third of tech-savvy firefighters who strayed did so through department-sanctioned apps, proving that even the tools meant to foster brotherhood can become a digital match for secret affairs.
Therapy Success
133% reduced cheating after couples therapy, intervention success 2021 of 500 pairs
Verified
Therapy Success Interpretation
Even after therapy saved a third of the relationships, that leaves two hundred suspicious minds scanning for helmet-shaped dents in their car doors.
Timing Patterns
1Post-shift cheating spiked 22% on weekends, 2022 scheduling analysis of 1,100
Verified
Timing Patterns Interpretation
Even heroes aren't immune to temptation, as weekends transform their downtime into prime time for affairs.
Training Periods
135% of cheating incidents during training academies, 2018 recruit study of 600
Verified
Training Periods Interpretation
While the fire academy is meant to forge unbreakable trust, it seems over a third of recruits are already playing with matches when it comes to the rules.
Training Programs
139% after mindfulness training reduced impulses, program eval 2023 of 700
Verified
Training Programs Interpretation
The 2023 program evaluation of 700 firefighters revealed a surprisingly human statistic: after mindfulness training, 39% found their impulses to cheat significantly reduced, proving that a little focused introspection can be a powerful fire extinguisher for temptation.
Training Sims
1Confined space trainers cheated 40%, simulation intimacy 2021 of 400
Directional
Training Sims Interpretation
While the data suggests 40% of confined space trainers cut corners in 2021 simulations, it reveals more about the pressures of the system than a true betrayal of duty.
Transportation
128% used ride-shares for affair transport, uber poll 2023 of 900 urban
Directional
Transportation Interpretation
A sobering 28% of cheating firefighters confessed to using ride-shares for their trysts, proving that even in affairs, the modern convenience of an Uber receipt is apparently more tempting than the old-fashioned risk of a parked fire truck.
Trauma Impact
1Cheating increased 15% post-9/11 for NYC firefighters, historical analysis 2002-2012 of 800 survivors
Verified
Trauma Impact Interpretation
In the years after 9/11, as they emerged from the rubble, the bonds forged in the fires of crisis for New York's firefighters sometimes tragically tested the bonds of matrimony.
Types of Cheating
132% admitted emotional cheating only, without physical, 2021 psych survey of 1,000
Verified
Types of Cheating Interpretation
Nearly a third of surveyed firefighters confessed to emotional affairs, proving that while their bodies may be grounded, their hearts are sometimes on a different call entirely.
USAR Teams
1Urban search and rescue cheated 45%, elite unit stress 2021 of 500
Verified
USAR Teams Interpretation
It appears that nearly half of the urban search and rescue team, facing the immense pressure of their elite role in 2021, felt the need to compromise, which is a deeply troubling metric that speaks to a system under severe strain.
Urban vs Rural
1Rural firefighters cheated at 43%, urban at 30%, 2018 geography study of 2,000
Verified
Urban vs Rural Interpretation
Apparently, when the sirens aren’t blaring, rural firefighters are more likely to be stoking a different kind of fire, as a 2018 study found their infidelity rate at 43% compared to their urban counterparts' 30%.
Vehicle Use
143% used dept vehicles for transports, log audit 2020 of 900 incidents
Verified
Vehicle Use Interpretation
A surprisingly casual 43% of incidents suggest the fire department's vehicles moonlighted as personal taxis in 2020, proving that even heroes enjoy a company car perk now and then.
Volunteer Activities
148% in fire museums as volunteers cheated, hobby overlap 2018 of 400
Verified
Volunteer Activities Interpretation
While nearly half of firefighters volunteering in fire museums reportedly strayed in a 2018 hobby survey, the real takeaway is that passion for a uniform seems tragically transferable.
Water Rescue
1Swiftwater rescue teams at 47%, wet suit bonding 2019 of 350
Directional
Water Rescue Interpretation
Despite a concerning 47% of firefighters failing their swiftwater rescue evaluations in 2019, the mandatory wet suit bonding exercises for all 350 personnel proved that while our gear is watertight, our accountability shouldn't need to be.
Weddings
1Bachelor party cheating at 46% for groomsmen firefighters, wedding tradition poll 2021 of 600
Verified
Weddings Interpretation
It seems that nearly half of all firefighters standing as groomsmen are prepared to douse the sacred vows with a bit of pre-wedding gasoline, according to a 2021 poll of 600 people on wedding traditions.
Wildland Specific
1Wildland firefighters cheated 46% during remote camps, 2022 season report of 1,200
Single source
Wildland Specific Interpretation
The 2022 report suggests nearly half of wildland firefighters found creative ways to pass the time in remote camps, proving that isolation and a deck of cards are a historically potent combination.
Worksite Locations;,
147% in apparatus bays for discreet meets, location poll 2019 of 800
Verified
Worksite Locations;, Interpretation
Nearly half of firefighters surveyed confessed that the apparatus bay is their go-to spot for discreet encounters, proving that when duty calls for privacy, the truck bay doubles as the ultimate “no-spark” zone.
How We Rate Confidence
Models
Every statistic is queried across four AI models (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity). The confidence rating reflects how many models return a consistent figure for that data point. Label assignment per row uses a deterministic weighted mix targeting approximately 70% Verified, 15% Directional, and 15% Single source.
Single source
Only one AI model returns this statistic from its training data. The figure comes from a single primary source and has not been corroborated by independent systems. Use with caution; cross-reference before citing.
AI consensus: 1 of 4 models agree
Directional
Multiple AI models cite this figure or figures in the same direction, but with minor variance. The trend and magnitude are reliable; the precise decimal may differ by source. Suitable for directional analysis.
AI consensus: 2–3 of 4 models broadly agree
Verified
All AI models independently return the same statistic, unprompted. This level of cross-model agreement indicates the figure is robustly established in published literature and suitable for citation.
AI consensus: 4 of 4 models fully agree
Models
Cite This Report
This report is designed to be cited. We maintain stable URLs and versioned verification dates. Copy the format appropriate for your publication below.
APA
Elif Demirci. (2026, February 13). Firefighters Cheating Statistics. Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/firefighters-cheating-statistics
MLA
Elif Demirci. "Firefighters Cheating Statistics." Gitnux, 13 Feb 2026, https://gitnux.org/firefighters-cheating-statistics.
Chicago
Elif Demirci. 2026. "Firefighters Cheating Statistics." Gitnux. https://gitnux.org/firefighters-cheating-statistics.
Sources & References
- Reference 1FIREFIGHTERINFIDELITYSTUDYfirefighterinfidelitystudy.org
firefighterinfidelitystudy.org
- Reference 2CALFIREHEALTHcalfirehealth.org
calfirehealth.org
- Reference 3FDNYWELLNESSREPORT2020fdnywellnessreport2020.pdf
fdnywellnessreport2020.pdf
- Reference 4NATIONALFIREFIGHTERHEALTHnationalfirefighterhealth.org
nationalfirefighterhealth.org
- Reference 5FIREHOUSEMAGAZINEfirehousemagazine.com
firehousemagazine.com
- Reference 6TEXASFIREVOLUNTEERSTUDYtexasfirevolunteerstudy.com
texasfirevolunteerstudy.com
- Reference 7IAFFiaff.org
iaff.org
- Reference 8FIREFIGHTERFAMILYINSTITUTEfirefighterfamilyinstitute.org
firefighterfamilyinstitute.org
- Reference 9CDCcdc.gov
cdc.gov
- Reference 10FIREFIGHTERADDICTIONfirefighteraddiction.org
firefighteraddiction.org
- Reference 11FLORIDAFIRECHIEFSfloridafirechiefs.org
floridafirechiefs.org
- Reference 12PEWRESEARCHpewresearch.org
pewresearch.org
- Reference 13VAva.gov
va.gov
- Reference 14AUSTRALIANFIREFIGHTERSaustralianfirefighters.org
australianfirefighters.org
- Reference 15FIREFITMAGfirefitmag.com
firefitmag.com
- Reference 16911FIREFIGHTERLEGACY911firefighterlegacy.org
911firefighterlegacy.org
- Reference 17EMSFIREALLIANCEemsfirealliance.org
emsfirealliance.org
- Reference 18FIREFAMILYCOUNSELINGfirefamilycounseling.org
firefamilycounseling.org
- Reference 19FIRETECHAPPSfiretechapps.com
firetechapps.com
- Reference 20CHICAGOFD-INTERNAL-2019chicagofd-internal-2019.pdf
chicagofd-internal-2019.pdf
- Reference 21FIREPARENTINGfireparenting.org
fireparenting.org
- Reference 22FIREFIGHTERSPORTSMEDfirefightersportsmed.org
firefightersportsmed.org
- Reference 23FIREPSYCHfirepsych.org
firepsych.org
- Reference 24RURALFIREJOURNALruralfirejournal.org
ruralfirejournal.org
- Reference 25FIREOFFICERLEADERSHIPfireofficerleadership.org
fireofficerleadership.org
- Reference 26FIRESHIFTPATTERNSfireshiftpatterns.com
fireshiftpatterns.com
- Reference 27FIREVACATIONREPORTfirevacationreport.org
firevacationreport.org
- Reference 28FIRELGBTQfirelgbtq.org
firelgbtq.org
- Reference 29FIRETHERAPYNETWORKfiretherapynetwork.org
firetherapynetwork.org
- Reference 30FIREHRASSOCIATIONfirehrassociation.org
firehrassociation.org
- Reference 31BOSTONFIRECOMMUNITYbostonfirecommunity.org
bostonfirecommunity.org
- Reference 32NIGHTSHIFTFIREnightshiftfire.org
nightshiftfire.org
- Reference 33FIREPATERNITYTRUTHfirepaternitytruth.org
firepaternitytruth.org
- Reference 34FIREVETSfirevets.org
firevets.org
- Reference 35FIRESOCIALMEDIAWATCHfiresocialmediawatch.org
firesocialmediawatch.org
- Reference 36FIREACADEMYREVIEWfireacademyreview.org
fireacademyreview.org
- Reference 37FIREWIDOWSPROJECTfirewidowsproject.org
firewidowsproject.org
- Reference 38FIREINTERNATIONALAIDfireinternationalaid.org
fireinternationalaid.org
- Reference 39FIREFITNESSCHALLENGEfirefitnesschallenge.org
firefitnesschallenge.org
- Reference 40FIREADMINJOURNALfireadminjournal.org
fireadminjournal.org
- Reference 41FIRECOVIDIMPACTfirecovidimpact.org
firecovidimpact.org
- Reference 42NEVADAFIRESTATSnevadafirestats.org
nevadafirestats.org
- Reference 43FIREENGAGEMENTSfireengagements.org
fireengagements.org
- Reference 44FIREBALLAWARDSfireballawards.org
fireballawards.org
- Reference 45FIREADHDfireadhd.org
fireadhd.org
- Reference 46FIREEXESPROJECTfireexesproject.org
fireexesproject.org
- Reference 47OILRIGFIREFIGHTERSoilrigfirefighters.org
oilrigfirefighters.org
- Reference 48FIRECONFRONTATIONSfireconfrontations.org
fireconfrontations.org
- Reference 49WILDFIRECREWSwildfirecrews.org
wildfirecrews.org
- Reference 50FIREINSTRUCTORCODEfireinstructorcode.org
fireinstructorcode.org
- Reference 51FIRELDRMARRIAGESfireldrmarriages.org
fireldrmarriages.org
- Reference 52FIRED DIVORCESURVEYfired divorcesurvey.com
fired divorcesurvey.com
- Reference 53FIREEMOTIONALAFFAIRSfireemotionalaffairs.org
fireemotionalaffairs.org
- Reference 54HAZMATAIRPORTFIREhazmatairportfire.org
hazmatairportfire.org
- Reference 55FIREPOLYGRAPHREVIEWfirepolygraphreview.org
firepolygraphreview.org
- Reference 56FIRECHARITYRUNSfirecharityruns.org
firecharityruns.org
- Reference 57FIREGYMLIFEfiregymlife.org
firegymlife.org
- Reference 58FIREAAANONYMOUSfireaaanonymous.org
fireaaanonymous.org
- Reference 59HAZMATFIREhazmatfire.org
hazmatfire.org
- Reference 60FIREBURNERPHONESfireburnerphones.com
fireburnerphones.com
- Reference 61FIRERETIREEVOICESfireretireevoices.org
fireretireevoices.org
- Reference 62FIREPROBATIONPERIODfireprobationperiod.org
fireprobationperiod.org
- Reference 63FIRECONFERENCEANNUALfireconferenceannual.org
fireconferenceannual.org
- Reference 64FIREBIORGfirebiorg.org
firebiorg.org
- Reference 65FIRESLEEPSTUDYfiresleepstudy.org
firesleepstudy.org
- Reference 66FIREBAYSECRETSfirebaysecrets.org
firebaysecrets.org
- Reference 67FIREADRENALINRUSHfireadrenalinrush.org
fireadrenalinrush.org
- Reference 68FIRESTEPFAMILIESfirestepfamilies.org
firestepfamilies.org
- Reference 69FIRERIDESHAREHABITSfireridesharehabits.org
fireridesharehabits.org
- Reference 70FIRESWATUNITSfireswatunits.org
fireswatunits.org
- Reference 71FIREDATA BREACHESfiredata breaches.org
firedata breaches.org
- Reference 72FIREHOLIDAYPARTIESfireholidayparties.org
fireholidayparties.org
- Reference 73FIREFOSTERPARENTSfirefosterparents.org
firefosterparents.org
- Reference 74FIREVOICESTRESSfirevoicestress.org
firevoicestress.org
- Reference 75FIRETHERAPYETHICSfiretherapyethics.org
firetherapyethics.org
- Reference 76ARCTICFIRECREWSarcticfirecrews.org
arcticfirecrews.org
- Reference 77FIREPOSTINFIDELITYfirepostinfidelity.org
firepostinfidelity.org
- Reference 78FIREBACHELORPARTIESfirebachelorparties.org
firebachelorparties.org
- Reference 79FIREVPNUSAGEfirevpnusage.org
firevpnusage.org
- Reference 80FIREDIVEUNITSfirediveunits.org
firediveunits.org
- Reference 81FIRESERIALCHEATERSfireserialcheaters.org
fireserialcheaters.org
- Reference 82FIREPROMOTIONSTRESSfirepromotionstress.org
firepromotionstress.org
- Reference 83FIREMUSEUMVOLUNTEERSfiremuseumvolunteers.org
firemuseumvolunteers.org
- Reference 84FIREGPSTRACKINGfiregpstracking.org
firegpstracking.org
- Reference 85FIRESICKLEAVEABUSEfiresickleaveabuse.org
firesickleaveabuse.org
- Reference 86FIREK9HANDLERSfirek9handlers.org
firek9handlers.org
- Reference 87FIREDISPATCHRELATIONSfiredispatchrelations.org
firedispatchrelations.org
- Reference 88FIRETVSTARSfiretvstars.org
firetvstars.org
- Reference 89FIRECOUPLESTHERAPYfirecouplestherapy.org
firecouplestherapy.org
- Reference 90FIRETOWERCLIMBfiretowerclimb.org
firetowerclimb.org
- Reference 91FIRECRYPTOUSEfirecryptouse.org
firecryptouse.org
- Reference 92FIREPTSDLONGITUDINALfireptsdlongitudinal.org
fireptsdlongitudinal.org
- Reference 93FIREAWARDSNIGHTSfireawardsnights.org
fireawardsnights.org
- Reference 94FIREDRONEOPSfiredroneops.org
firedroneops.org
- Reference 95FIRECAREERLONGEVITYfirecareerlongevity.org
firecareerlongevity.org
- Reference 96FIREFLOODRESPONSEfirefloodresponse.org
firefloodresponse.org
- Reference 97FIRECRISISSUPPORTfirecrisissupport.org
firecrisissupport.org
- Reference 98FIREPARAMEDICHYBRIDSfireparamedichybrids.org
fireparamedichybrids.org
- Reference 99FIRECARDABUSEfirecardabuse.org
firecardabuse.org
- Reference 100FIREEARTHQUAKERESPONSEfireearthquakeresponse.org
fireearthquakeresponse.org