Firefighters to Climb Indy Skyscraper in 50 Pounds of Gear

On Saturday, March 9, firefighters from all over the region will scale the tallest tower in Indiana carrying 50-75 pounds of gear for the Firefighter Challenge at the American Lung Association in Indiana’s Fight For Air Climb at Salesforce Tower.

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 47 floors, 1,054 steps of the tallest tower in Indiana.

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 Tanya Husain, 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 thousands of Indiana residents who race up the stairs of Salesforce Tower (47 floors, 1,054 steps) in an effort to raise awareness and money to fight lung disease. The event is presented locally by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Indiana.

Registration for the 2019 Fight For Air Climb is currently open online or by calling 317-819-1181.