Firefighter Challenge

Join Us

Rally your department for a fun challenge, and compete against neighboring departments and towns throughout the local area to bring home the coveted Firefighter Challenge Award. Other benefits include:

  • Build stamina
  • Build upper body strength
  • Access a training location
  • Build physical and mental confidence
  • Increase lung disease awareness
  • Increase knowledge of early detection
  • Increase knowledge of available resources
  • Healthy competition with other fire stations and departments
  • Build community trust
  • Make a real difference

The mission of the American Lung Association hits close to home with firefighters because of the increased susceptibility to lung disease. Have your department join us at your local Fight For Air Climb to fund a world free from lung disease.

Gear Requirements

Full-gear: Nationwide, each participant is required to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which meets current NFPA structural firefighting standards. Gear that is not issued by your department for structural firefighting must meet NFPA 1971 2007 for structural firefighting including Pants, Coats, Helmet, Pack (SEBA tank and mask).

Mask can be worn or attached to body during climb. Air tanks are not required to be filled; however we suggest they are. Please note: not all departments have enough air packs for each participant to use during climb.

Health Concerns & Resources

  • Respiratory diseases remain a significant health issue for firefighters and first 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 high 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.
  • As an evolving concern, PFAs, which are chemicals found in a variety of places and products, including drinking water, soil, food packaging, and household products, as well as in firefighter gear, may be a concern for you or your department.
    • The American Lung Association is monitoring the issue, reviewing available research on the topic, and are in talks with a representative selection of firefighters who participate in our Fight For Air Climbs nationwide, to get perspectives and feedback.
    • As such, we have added a modified-gear and a no-gear option to the Firefighter Challenges nationwide. We will continue to follow this issue closely and will evolve our events to ensure the highest level of health and safety for all participants.

Awards

The fastest firefighter in full gear that climbs The STRAT will be awarded in addition to the Firefighter Challenge Cup which will be displayed that the winning firefighter's home fire station.