MONROE - Firefighters will carry mannequins and douse targets until a department is declared champion in the annual Union County firefighters competition.

“It’s something that we always look forward to,” Monroe Fire Chief Ron Fowler said. “It’s a good time for the different departments to come together and enjoy a time of fellowship and friendly competition.”

Certainly the competition aspect is not lost on the participants.

“Firefighters are very competitive and I’m sure everybody will be doing their best,” Fowler said.

Events are kept under strict lock and key prior to the competition — “That way it doesn’t give anybody an unfair advantage,” Fowler said — but one constant is the individual triathlon in which a firefighter does hose drills and simulates a rescue with a mannequin.

In addition to the competition, Fowler said the event is a good time for the departments to “maintain and foster their relationships.”

The more events the departments do together, “the better we work together when we need to call on each other.” he said. “Regardless of who wins, it’s a good day.”

Fire trucks will line up at Monroe Crossing at 7:45 a.m. and caravan to the training tower at the end of Quarry Road. Opening ceremonies will begin at 8:15 a.m.; the free event is open to the public.