How to prepare for a firefighter physical ability test!

How to prepare for a firefighter physical ability test. Because firefighter jobs are difficult and dangerous positions, only those who are in the best of physical shape need apply. Agencies have constructed some incredibly challenging ways to weed out those who simply do not have the strength necessary for success in this demanding position.

While there are a number of different options a fire department can elect when deciding upon the Physical Ability Test they will use in their hiring process, the two most widely used PATs are the 'Biddle PAT' or the 'Candidate Physical Ability Test' (the CPAT.)

Both of these tests are designed to be work sample tests and provide a good sample the various physical duties that firefighter perform on the job.

The 'Biddle PAT' is a continuously-timed test that requires candidates to complete anywhere from nine to eleven different events, or stations, depending upon which events are best suited for the departments’ needs. Examples of the Biddle PAT test events can be found online.

The CPAT is an 8-event test that also simulates the physical aspects of a firefighter’s job. A description of the CPAT as well as a CPAT orientation guide to help you prepare for the test can be found online. The following are the eight steps currently included in the CPAT test:

Stair Climb
Hose Drag
Equipment Carry
Ladder Raise
Forcible Entry
Search
Rescue Drag
Ceiling Breach & Pull

Dr. Jen Milus has a wonderful website (www.fireagility.com) that helps a candidate prepare for the rigors of these kinds of tests. One of the great things that Dr. Milus does is to evaluate the list of CPAT events in terms of the difficulties involved in each event and some strategies or solutions for each. Dr. Milus provides very helpful advice in guiding the physically-fit candidate through the CPAT process.

The California Fire Fighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee has a fantastic video that will help to prepare an inexperienced candidate for what to expect when taking the CPAT. A CPAT preparation guide is also available at the same page.