On Mar. 25, members of the University City Fire Department will participate in the annual Fight for Air Climb at the Metropolitan Square Building sponsored by the American Lung Association.
The annual event raises funds for the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease. Funds raised go towards life-saving research, supporting critical local programing like educational programs to help children better manage their asthma and free programs to help locals quit smoking. 
According to the American Cancer Society, firefighters are at an increased risk for different types of cancer due to the smoke and hazardous chemicals they are exposed to in the line of duty.
“It’s important for us to participate in events like Fight for Air especially to support our fellow colleagues who suffer from various lung-related diseases in St. Louis. Last year, we raised more than $8,000 for the cause. We hope to not only raise that much this year but to exceed it,” said University City Fire Captain Daniel Jones.
This is the sixth year University City has participated in the event.
University City Firefighters will wear their full gear while climbing the 40 floors and 856 steps of the Metropolitan Square Building in downtown St. Louis.
To donate and support University City’s Fire Department’s efforts, click here.
Learn more about the St. Louis Fight for Air Climb here.