How to become a structural (urban) firefighter: Part 6

The written test

Written tests for entry-level firefighter candidates are usually general-knowledge, civil-service type tests. A few fire departments may still use tests on firefighting subjects, based on a study guide distributed in advance. In Canada, so-called mechanical aptitude tests may still be given; in the U.S., these have for the most part been abandoned as not relevant to the job.

Take advantage of any study groups or preparatory test-taking assistance the fire department may offer, particularly if you are uncomfortable with written tests or if English is not your first language. If the department does not provide this kind of help, you may be able to find similar programs at local community colleges or university outreach programs. Be sure to talk with people who have taken the department's test before. Even though the exact questions will be different, the types of questions, the format, and the test administration process may be similar.

As with every stage of the process, know exactly where the test will be given, what you must bring with you (a photo ID, for example), and what time it will start. Plan to get there early. If you're driving a long way or to an unfamiliar part of town, give yourself plenty of extra time to get there. If you arrive even five minutes late, you will probably not be allowed to take the test or continue on in the hiring process. Do not rely on other applicants for information about the testing process; deal directly with fire department or other testing officials regarding any questions or unusual situations.

The physical abilities test

Different fire departments use different kinds of physical abilities tests, and the exact components vary. The test you take may be a basic assessment of strength and fitness using measures such as sit-ups and a mile-and-a-half run, or it may be made up of events simulating tasks that are done at fires, such as hose drags and ladder raises. Find out all you can about the test in advance. If the department has a videotape of its test available, watch it as many times as you can. Be sure to attend test practice sessions if the department offers them, preferably well in advance of your testing date. This will give you time to re-evaluate your workout routine or address any problems you discover.

If you know what will be on the test several weeks or months beforehand, adjust your exercise program accordingly. A trainer at your gym or a coach at school should be able to help you tailor your workout to the specific events of the test. Find out how will the test be scored. Many fire departments' tests are pass-fail; know what you need to do (usually a time you must meet) in order to pass. Some fire departments factor the applicant's time on the physical test into an overall score that determines their place on the hiring list. In such cases, the faster you get through the test, the better your chances are of being hired, so you should be prepared for an all-out effort.

On the day of the test, arrive early, well-nourished and well-rested. Take appropriate clothing: sweats, good athletic shoes, gloves if required. If the testing process will be a long one, make sure you have water and high-energy snacks on hand. If the day is hot, make sure you've drunk plenty of water before you start the test. Warm up and stretch just as you would before any strenuous workout.

Despite the fact that everyone is competing against each other for the same few job openings, a camaraderie often develops among the applicants taking a firefighter test on the same day. Most women find this friendship includes them, even if there are few women taking the test. Such support and encouragement can help you perform well, even when it comes from total strangers.

Make sure you understand all of the instructions for each part of the test. Ask questions if necessary for clarification. If applicants are to wear firefighter protective clothing while taking the test, make sure you get gear that fits. Don't be hesitant to call attention to yourself in this way: having a glove fall off or a helmet slip down over your eyes during the test may mean the difference between passing and failing. The fire department or other testing agency is responsible for ensuring that the test conditions are as similar as possible for all candidates, and they must make gear available to fit candidates of all sizes.

To read one woman's story about taking an entry-level firefighter physical abilities test, see "CPAT: One Woman's Experience"

This article is adapted from material developed by WFS under contract to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's U.S. Fire Administration, and published by FEMA/USFA as Many Women Strong: A Handbook for Women Firefighters. The handbook may be ordered free of charge from the USFA's website.