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We came together to answer one question:
What Tips Would You Give Under-Prepared Firefighter Candidates?
Fire candidates do not realize how much time it takes to prepare for an aptitude test. Most start studying a few weeks before they write, which is often not enough time. Recruits have to look at their test preparation like an athlete preparing to run a marathon. Athletes don’t start running weeks before their race. They start training months in advance. Recruits need to do the same, especially with math. Assess your strengths and weaknesses. Develop your skills. Write when you are ready, and run your best race.
Fire recruits often train their strengths, not weaknesses. As the industrial athlete, training needs to be specific to testing and/or firefighting. Start three months prior to the test. Training needs to be targeted on high-end cardio (80% max heart rate), force production, dynamic core engagement, efficient and safe lift techniques, back and hamstring flexibility, as well as stress management techniques that promote relaxation.
Many aspiring firefighters think that having the minimum certification requirements makes them eligible applicants. That may be so, but it’s the competitive applicant who is given the Conditional Job Offer.
Expand your skill set to become a competitive applicant. Research your desired municipalities and see what technical rescue services they deliver. Contact Training Officers, Human Resource personnel, and department contacts when appropriate. Read current fire department reports to municipal councils and learn about your potential employer.
Audit your skills by keeping a journal. Compare your skills to job postings. Identify your deficiencies and develop a personal action plan to acquire technical skills. You will certainly become a competitive applicant.
Ask questions. Check in with other people’s recommendations. Be prepared for the workload ahead and know what is expected of you throughout. Adjust your schedule to allow extra time to prepare. If you fail to complete pre-course assignments and readings, you will be trying to catch up all the way through. Build enthusiasm in your learning topic. The fire service is a Jack or Jill of all trades, so enjoy every bit of your training while you learn valuable life skills on the job and off.
Vehicle extrication is physically and mentally demanding. Firefighters work in full bunker gear while operating a 50-60 lb. tool in an elevated position under visual and audible stresses.
Firefighting is a tough profession. Bring your A-game in everything you do in your endeavor to become a firefighter.
Remember that you are being interviewed every time you take a course, visit a firehall, or speak with a fire service member. There is a small degree of separation in the fire service—we all know each other. Conduct yourself accordingly.
Candidates who are prepared for their interviews have been preparing for months before they receive their interview date.
They know their resume and how to sell their transferable skills. They have their 15-20 stories memorized and know all the competencies that relate to each story.
They have researched and worked on every possible situational question that can arise and have answers. They have considered their weaknesses and strengths and have reviewed their NFPA 1001 course material for any technical questions that may be asked.
Most panels are not part of the resume grading process and really have no idea about a recruit’s education, work experience, and community involvement. You need to educate the panel on what you have done and how it would make you a great firefighter. The panel needs to hear passion from you about the position you are applying for and your life experiences. This is how to take an “out of the can” answer and make it your own.
60-question Firefighter Aptitude Test PDF
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