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3 Important Tests To Become A Firefighter

There are three important tests to take when you are planning to become a Firefighter. The following will tell you about those tests to give you insite as to how to best prepare. 

1. Firefighter Physical Ability Test (PAT)

Being physically fit is an extremely important aspect of Firefighting. It is not common for individuals to become more fit once on the job, which is why it is so important to train for the Physical Ability Test. If you make a habit of your training, you will be more likely to remain fit while employed as a Firefighter.

The Physical Ability Test is task-oriented. It consists of stations that are to be completed in sequence. This test is meant for the department to assess the candidate’s ability to perform in the field.

The candidate will be expected to move at a steady and acceptable pace while navigating the course and completing the obstacles.

It is common for the Physical Ability Test to request additional weight to be carried by the candidates in order to simulate carrying a person.

2. Firefighter Written Exam

The Firefighter Written Exam consists of two parts. Part 1 consists of math including addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, ratios, square roots, decimals, percentages, and fractions. Reading comprehension is also included in Part 1.

Part 2 of the Firefighter Written Exam is designed to measure job-related characteristics. They can indicate if the candidate would work as a successful Firefighter.

3. Firefighter Oral Board Exam

The Firefighter Oral Board Exam is a series of questions designed to assess you as an individual and how you would be in the field.

Some questions you can expect for the Firefighter Oral Board Exam include, but are not limited to:

• Why do you want to be a firefighter? 
• When did you decide on this career?
• What is the job of a firefighter?  Are you qualified?
• What have you done to prepare for this position?
• What do you like to do?  What are your hobbies?
• What are your strengths?  Weaknesses?
• Drinking or drugs on the job?
• Stealing on the job?
• Irate citizen?
• An employee crisis at an emergency?

They may ask how you would handle the following situations: