08/18/2026
OFD Employee Spotlight — Driver Isabel “Izzy” Grimmett
Meet Driver Isabel “Izzy” Grimmett!
This month, we’re getting to know Driver Isabel “Izzy” Grimmett, who has been a member of the Osceola Fire Department for the past two years. Izzy is assigned to Station 1 on Engine 11.
Originally from Bellevue, Michigan, Izzy moved around quite a bit growing up because of her dad’s job. After eventually making her way to Arkansas, she decided she liked it here enough to buy a camper and stay.
Izzy became a firefighter because she wanted a career where she could work outdoors and never know exactly what each day was going to bring. After two years in the fire service, she says firefighting has turned out to be everything she expected—and more. She describes it as an adrenaline-rushing, sad, exciting, crazy, and sometimes unbelievable job. What she enjoys most is being able to help people and getting the opportunity to work a wide variety of calls.
One of the things Izzy especially enjoys about working for the Osceola Fire Department is being part of a smaller department. Since joining OFD, she has had the opportunity to respond to every structure fire, something she didn't always get to experience at her previous department in Florida. She has also gained valuable experience and training in rope rescue operations and advanced vehicle extrication.
When asked about her biggest accomplishment, Izzy didn't hesitate to mention passing the fire academy. Although she describes it as sounding simple, it was anything but easy. Having never even been to a gym before attending the academy, she had to work hard and train every day after class to build the strength needed to pass the required tests. That determination paid off.
One of Izzy's most memorable calls was a cardiac arrest where the crew performed CPR and successfully achieved ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation). She was then asked to ride with EMS to assist with the patient during transport. While on the way to the hospital, the patient actually began to wake up—a moment Izzy won't soon forget.
Izzy currently holds certifications including Firefighter I & II, EMT, Driver/Operator, Rope Rescue, and Vehicle Extrication. Looking ahead, she wants to continue expanding her rescue skills by earning her Rope Technician and Confined Space certifications. She also wants to learn more of the skills involved in paramedicine, although she doesn't have plans to become a paramedic.
Her advice to someone entering the fire service is simple:
“Don’t think that just because you passed the academy that you don’t have to work out or train. And sometimes shutting up and listening is the best thing to do.”
When she's not at the firehouse, Izzy enjoys obstacle courses, trips to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and cheering for the Detroit Red Wings. She's a fan of Chinese food, Panda Express, The Greatest Showman, and The Owl House. And if you're wondering what she always has with her at work, the answer is simple: snacks and candy.
And finally, here's a fun fact you might not know about Izzy: she was the champion of an archery competition at her campground while living in Florida.
Thank you, Izzy, for being part of the Osceola Fire Department and for everything you bring to the department and the community! 🚒
