The competition highlights firefighters in the community, teaching the importance of fire safety. Fire officials say, they also hope to find new recruits.
“It gives you just a taste of all the different aspects of our job," said Fire Chief Kathleen Thompson. "Whether you come to watch, whether you come to compete, or you want to come and volunteer, it’ll be a good day.”
Thompson says that in partnering with the Fire Prevention Foundation, the Grand Rapids Fire department aims to showcase firefighters’ skills and raise fire safety awareness.
This is done through the Official Firefighter Challenge. The family-friendly event includes educational activities, a beer tent, charity challenges, and of course, the nationally renowned competitions–physical challenges involving skills that firefighters use every day on the job.
Beyond increasing community awareness, Chief Thompson says, the Grand Rapids Fire Department is also hoping to expand its ranks.
“We absolutely want this to be a recruitment tool, so we hope that more people consider the fire service as a career opportunity.”
The Firefighter Challenge is happening the weekend of July 29th. To compete in challenges, volunteer, or learn more, officials say to visit joingrfire.com/events.
