Firefighting is a physically demanding and potentially dangerous profession that requires firefighters to have a high level of physical fitness and technical knowledge to perform their duties effectively and safely. To ensure that firefighters are physically and mentally prepared for the job, many fire departments have pre-test requirements that applicants must meet before they can be hired. Pre-test requirements may vary by fire department.
- Physical Fitness Test: Firefighting is a physically demanding job, and candidates must be able to meet certain physical fitness standards. You must be able to lift and drag heavy objects, climb stairs, and move quickly in sometimes dangerous situations.
- You must have a Medical Clearance form completed by your doctor to take the test.
- How to prepare for the firefighter physical test?
- If you haven’t already been working out, start NOW.
- There are many resources out there. Find a gym, workout program and personal trainer to help you with your workout plan.
- Training suggestions and video
- Gyms specialize in training firefighters:
- Medical Knowledge Test:
- There are different levels of medical knowledge departments may require. If you are tested on your medical knowledge , you would be tested on the level of certification you are registered with the Alberta College of Paramedics. The test will include a written , verbal and practical scenarios.
- Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP),
- Primary Care Paramedic (PCP),
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR),
- Medical First Responder (MFR)
- Avanced First Aid (AFA)
- Where to take medical training? The Alberta College of Paramedics lists approved institutes.
- There are different levels of medical knowledge departments may require. If you are tested on your medical knowledge , you would be tested on the level of certification you are registered with the Alberta College of Paramedics. The test will include a written , verbal and practical scenarios.
- Aptitude Test:
- Evaluates on firefighter competencies which includes teamwork, human relations and behavioural skills , mechanical aptitude, reading, and math skills.
- Aptitude practice test page where you can purchase the expanded version or the basic practice test.
- Evaluates on firefighter competencies which includes teamwork, human relations and behavioural skills , mechanical aptitude, reading, and math skills.
- Confined Space Test:
- Confined spaces are areas that are difficult to access and exit, and which may have limited ventilation or other hazardous conditions that can pose a risk to human health and safety. It is important for individuals who are interested in becoming firefighters to assess their own comfort level with confined spaces and other potentially stressful situations before pursuing a career in firefighting.
- Ropes & Knots Test:
- Firefighters are often required to perform a variety of tasks that involve ropes and knots, such as rescue operations, building ventilation, and hoisting equipment or supplies. As a result, it is important for firefighters to have a solid understanding of rope and knot tying techniques, as well as the equipment and tools used in these operations.
- Height Test:
- Height-related work is a common part of a firefighter’s job, as they are often required to perform operations at elevated heights, such as during high-angle rescues, building inspections, or firefighting operations that require accessing rooftops or upper floors. Therefore, it is important for firefighters to be comfortable with heights and have the necessary training and equipment to perform their duties safely.
