Firefighter trading cards are building community connection in Pasadena

Pasadena Fire Rescue has released online trading cards featuring photos and short biographies of volunteer firefighters to help residents become more familiar with the team.

Pasadena Fire Rescue is posting online trading cards that spotlight volunteer firefighters. The cards include profile photos and short bios listing years of service, day jobs, favourite foods and preferred tools. The project began after lighthearted Valentine's Day social posts and aims to give residents a different view of the department. Department leaders say the cards have helped some people realise the crew is made up of volunteers. Key details: - The cards are released in batches on social media and feature photographs and brief biographies. - Profiles note items such as years of service, day jobs, favourite foods and favourite tools like a chainsaw. - Firefighter Francis Manning initiated the idea and serves as the department's director of public relations; Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Garnier said the posts help "break the ice." - The first set of five cards was released after Manning collected profile answers from members and the department reported positive public reaction. - The department has discussed producing physical collector cards for special occasions but is weighing budget considerations. Summary: The online cards have given residents another way to recognise local volunteer firefighters and have highlighted the department's community role. Leaders say the initiative softens the image of firefighters as only present during emergencies and helps build connections. The department is keeping the project on social media for now while exploring the cost of producing physical cards for special occasions.