200 Firefighters to Climb U.S. Bank Plaza in 50 Pounds of Gear

On Saturday, February 23, more than 200 firefighters from all over the region will scale a local tower carrying 50-75 pounds of gear for the Firefighter Challenge at the American Lung Association in Minnesota’s Fight For Air Climb at U.S. Bank Plaza.

For the Firefighter Challenge, teams of five or more firefighters will compete for the title of the fastest fire department and top fundraising team. The teams are required to climb in full gear – helmet, mask, boots and air tank – which can add 50-75 pounds of weight as they tackle 31 floors, 680 steps of the U.S. Bank Plaza.

Area firefighters participate in the Fight For Air Climb for fitness and to bond as a team, but also to honor loved ones they lost to lung cancer and to raise awareness about the risk of lung disease for firefighters.

“In the line of duty, firefighters are regularly exposed to smoke, gasses, chemicals and other substances that can be damaging to their lungs, increasing their risk for lung disease,” said Missi Arens, executive director of the Lung Association. “Firefighters are out saving lives every day, and the work we do at the American Lung Association can not only help prevent lung disease but find a cure for lung cancer. We are honored that so many local heroes participate in our event.”

The Fight For Air Climb is open to all first responders, as well as individuals, friends and family teams, and corporate teams. Each year, the event attracts hundreds of residents and people from across the country who race up the stairs of U.S. Bank Plaza (31 floors, 680 steps) to raise awareness and money to fight lung disease. Registration for the 2019 Fight For Air Climb is currently open online or by calling 651-337-5099.