Meet a firefighter: Leon Chambers III

Leon Chambers III was a paid, on-call firefighter for Bloomington before being hired as a full-time firefighter this year. Three years ago, he also served as a full-time firefighter in Richfield. 

While working as a public safety officer at Normandale Community College, Leon met several Bloomington firefighters, who encouraged him to apply. 

“Once I became a firefighter, I knew I wanted to do it for the rest of my life,” Leon shared.

Dedicated to training, Leon completed basic and advanced certificates, an associate degree and leadership classes. He also joined Northland FOOLS (Fraternal Order of Leather-head Society), a national training organization.

With support from his wife Samantha and his children Amelia and Leon IV—who says “Dada” every time he sees a fire truck—Leon wants to encourage others to consider fire service.

“For many of us, this is the best job in the world,” Leon said.

Leon’s fire safety advice:

“Folks, before going to bed, please consider closing before you doze! A closed bedroom door becomes a barrier to heat, toxic gasses, and smoke that can save a life.”