Area Firefighters Climb KC Skyscraper in 50 Pounds of Gear

On Sunday, February 24, 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 Kansas & Greater Kansas City’s Fight For Air Climb at One Kansas City Place.

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 42 floors, 902 steps of the tallest tower in both Kansas and Missouri.

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, making them at an increased risk for lung disease,” said Linda Crider, executive director of the Lung Association. “Firefighters are out there saving lives every day, so hopefully the work we do at the American Lung Association can help prevent lung disease and 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 local residents and people from across the country who race up the stairs of One Kansas City Place (42 floors, 902 steps) to raise awareness and money to fight lung disease. The Fight For Air Climb at One Kansas City Place is presented locally by Empower Retirement.

Registration for the 2019 Fight For Air Climb is currently open online or by calling 913-353-9165.