Dakota County

IGH Fire Department hosts recruit event

The Inver Grove Heights Fire Department is inviting the public to walk a mile in their boots, so to speak, this week. To celebrate National Fire Prevention Week, the public is invited to Inver Grove Heights Fire Station #2 at 9200 Courthouse Blvd. on Thursday to try on firefighting gear, practice fire escapes and check out the city’s fire boats. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.

The event is part of a national campaign, titled “A Hustle Worth Having,” from the International Association of Fire Chiefs that seeks to recruit the next generation of firefighters, according to a news release.

“We know sometimes it just takes one interaction with the fire service to change someone’s life and inspire them to get involved,” said Jason Caughey, IAFC Volunteer & Combination Officers Section board member, in the release.

Inver Grove Heights is one of 20 fire departments across 13 states participating in the campaign.

— Mars King