Nashville Firefighters to Climb 45 Floors in 50 Pounds of Gear

On Saturday, November 2, firefighters from across the state will participate in Nashville’s biggest stair climb while carrying 50-75 pounds of gear in the Firefighter Challenge at the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb at the 505.

For the Firefighter Challenge, teams of five or more firefighters compete for the title of the fastest fire department and top fundraising team. The teams are required to climb in full gear – including helmet, mask, and boots – which can add 50-75 pounds of weight as they tackle 45 floors, 862 steps of the 505 building.

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 Gail Frost, 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 people from across the state who race up the stairs of the 505 building (45 floors, 862 steps) to raise awareness and money to fight lung disease. Following the Fight For Air Climb event, the Lung Association will host an after-party on Church Street, which will include local beer, music and fun for the whole family.

More information about the Fight For Air Climb at 505 is available at FightForAirClimb.org/Nashville.