Firefighters
The mission of the American Lung Association hits close to home with firefighters because of their increased susceptibility to lung disease. Join us at the 2024 Fight For Air Climb -Philadelphia. Climb for the shared challenge, the friendly competition between fellow firefighters, and climb for a world free of lung disease. This year you will have the option to climb in gear or no gear.
Firefighter and First Responder Awards Categories
John Narkin Award
We appreciate the hard work and dedication of every climber and team who has raised money to fight lung disease. The John Narkin Award will recognize the Top Fundraising Firefighter.
Philadelphia Battalion Chief John Narkin is a veteran firefighter, who has served the city of Philadelphia for over 27 years. In May 2018, John was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. In 2019, to help raise awareness about the high health risks firefighters face; Narkin formed a Fight For Air Climb team for the Philadelphia Climb.
Since 2007, the Philadelphia Fire Department has been participating in the Fight For Air Climb -Philadelphia and has raised over $107,000 for the American Lung Association. Narkin, while he continues to receive treatment for his lung cancer, is an inspiring example who makes a positive impact every day in the lives of his fellow firefighters and others in the community affected by lung cancer.
2024 Firefighter Participation and Awards Categories
Fastest Firefighter Team: to qualify there must be a minimum of 4 firefighters on your team
Individual Awards: Recognition of the top three fastest firefighters
Top Fundraising Firefighter Team
Top Fundraising Individual Firefighter- John Narkin Award
In-Gear Requirements
To qualify for firefighter awards, participants must adhere to the Firefighter Division gear requirements:
- Helmet
- Pants
- Jacket
- Boots
- Mask
The Impact of Lung Disease on Firefighters
- Respiratory diseases remain a significant health issue firefighters and emergency responders.
- In the line of duty, firefighters may experience occupational exposure to gases, chemicals, particulate and other substances with potentially damaging short- and long-term effects on the respiratory system.
- Firefighters are at a higher risk of developing chronic issues, including lingering cough, hoarseness, asthma, and allergies and in more extreme cases, may be diagnosed with lung or bronchial cancer.
Why firefighters should participate in the Fight For Air Climb:
- Helps build stamina
- Excellent way to build upper body strength
- Healthy competition with other fire stations
- Access to training location
- Builds physical and mental confidence
- Increases lung disease awareness, leading to earlier detection
- Great time to build community’s trust in their fire department