SOME GENERAL TIPS ON HOW TO BECOME A FIREFIGHTER

SOME GENERAL TIPS ON HOW TO BECOME A FIREFIGHTER

Have you always dreamed of becoming a firefighter? Whether it’s the rush of excitement while you’re battling a blaze or the inherent desire to help and protect others, choosing to become a firefighter is an admirable decision. If you know that firefighting is your life’s calling but you aren’t sure what steps to take to become one, we’re here to help. Test Ready Pro is the leader in firefighter test preparation and we’ll explain the basic requirements you’ll need, plus give you tips for how to succeed in your new career. Keep reading to learn more!

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

If you’re seeking to become a firefighter in Canada, there are some requirements that are pretty standard no matter which province or department you want to work in. However, it’s best to always confirm the requirements for your particular area before you get started.

I suggest that you check with your specific department as these are general guidelines and each department may vary the requirements.

The most common requirements that every new firefighter will have to meet include:
Minimum Age

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the time they submit their application.
Legal to Work

Firefighters must be legal to work in Canada.
Education

Applicants must have received their secondary school diploma.
License

Potential firefighters must have an unrestricted driver’s license.
Clean Record

Applicants must have no criminal convictions listed on their record.
Health

Potential firefighters must have at least 20/30 vision and good hearing. Additionally, applicants will need to pass a physical fitness test.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Keep in mind that even if you meet all of the basic conditions, there are still some requirements of the job that you’ll have to agree to. Working as a firefighter isn’t like going to a 9 to 5 job. It requires long, stressful hours on the job, and an inconsistent schedule. Prepare yourself for working nights, weekends, holidays and everything in between. Sometimes you’ll have to work very long shifts so you’ll need to get whatever sleep you can at the fire station. Working as a firefighter can be very demanding, but it can also be equally rewarding.

IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF BEING RECRUITED

If you’re sure that you want to become a firefighter, prepare for a difficult road ahead. You’ll be competing against hundreds of other candidates who may have more training than you, are in better shape than you, or have the experience that you don’t have. So how do you stand out and get a competitive advantage? Take every opportunity to improve your skills and better yourself so you can stand out above the rest. However, don't get caught up in the game of taking every course imaginable - stay focused on the areas you are interested in - High Angle for example, you do not need every course! (plus it will cost you - be the best in your area of expertise). One suggestion, Advanced Medical Training (EMR level or A-EMCA) is a very good idea!

In order to become a firefighter you’ll be required to be certified in standard first aid, but if you want to stand out from the crowd, why not take your skills a step further? A significant part of your job will be assisting with medical emergencies, so being trained as a paramedic or emergency responder can prove to be extremely helpful. Keep in mind that if you do choose to pursue advanced medical certification, Test Ready Pro offers comprehensive test preparation materials that will ensure your success for the Emergency Medical Care Assistant (A-EMCA) exam.

ENTER THE TRP GIVEAWAY (ENDS MARCH 31, 2023) FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TECH COURSES AND MORE! FREE TO ENTER!

Become a Volunteer 

Get an introduction to what it will be like working with the fire department by choosing to volunteer. You’ll build camaraderie with other firefighters and learn valuable skills and information that will no doubt help you when it’s time to submit your application.

Pass Your Test - The First Time

As in most provinces, the competition is intense. However, in fact, there has never been a better time to apply - and get hired! Since, 2020 and up to the foreseeable future almost every service is hiring like crazy! So if you are preparing for the OFAI FACT, NFST, CPS, OS or General Firefighter Tests - You need Practice Firefighter Tests, Test Preparation with Learning Materials and the attitude and skills to get that 85% or higher to get through the first phase!

Don't worry we have that covered! When you take your firefighter test, you’re probably thinking that you’ll be happy if you just pass the test. Unfortunately, this is the wrong attitude to have if you want to stand out from other candidates. Landing a job at a department is highly competitive, and getting just a so-so score on your test will likely not get your resume put on the top of the pile. If you really want a shot at getting the job you’ve always wanted, put forth the effort and aim for a perfect score!

At Test Ready Pro, we can help you prepare for your test and ultimately your career. When you sign up for our firefighter course, you’ll get a comprehensive collection of tools to help you pass your test with flying colors. You’ll get hundreds of pages-worth of study materials that include firefighting essentials as well as reading comprehension, vocabulary, math, spelling, and report writing. In addition, you’ll get materials to help prepare you for your fitness test and ace your interview.

Registration is simple and you’ll have access to all of the materials right away. You can print the documents and presentations or simply access them online from anywhere you choose. Does all of this sound like something you could use? Learn more about how Test Ready Pro has helped hundreds of people succeed by visiting our testimonials page.
Make an Impression During the Interview

When we say “make an impression during the interview” we mean that you have to make a good impression during the interview. Many firefighting students spend all of their time studying and practicing for the written exam and then completely bomb the interview process. You should put just as much effort into preparing for your interview. It’s usually the final step that stands between you and your dream!

If you want to make sure you’re fully prepared for your test and everything that comes after it, we encourage you to check out Test Ready Pro. We offer the most complete package of preparation tools available to make sure you’re ready for what lies ahead. When you purchase our firefighting test prep materials, you’ll not only get study guides and practice tests for your exam, you’ll also get a complete printable guide to help you prepare for your fitness test plus you’ll get valuable interview and recruitment help that will prepare you with valuable skills and guide you on how to answer questions.

PREPARE TO SUCCEED WITH TEST READY PRO.

Your career starts with the right training. Prepare the right way.

Get everything you need to succeed when you sign up for firefighter test prep from Test Ready Pro. We’ve helped hundreds of people realize their career aspirations and we can help you, too! Visit our site to register today.

TODAY IS THE DAY! ENTER THE TRP 2K GIVEWAY - JUMP START YOUR CAREER IN EMERGENCY SERVICES! FREE ENTRY (Ends March 31, 2023)

THIS IS IT! TODAY IS THE DAY!!!

Are you preparing for a career in Emergency Services? Fire, Police, Forces, Paramedic, Security etc!?

You know you have to pass your entrance testing - and we have made that easy for you! Everything you need for success at testreadypro.com - BUT WAIT!!!!

You could WIN over 2K in courses/training/prep in our FREE TO ENTER GIVEAWAY! NO. B.S.!

This is it! Today KICKS OFF THE TRP GIVEAWAY! That's right, over 2K in prizes - and it's FREE to enter! So enter now!!

Winners (3) to be announced on March 31, 2023 and posted on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, so make sure to like and follow-us! Free to enter!

Why not give your friends a chance to WIN also?

All you have to do is forward this link over so they can enter: https://mailchi.mp/testreadypro.../giveaway-opt-in-challenge

(Oh if you CC us on your forward you will get an extra entry in the giveaway!)

You haven’t entered!? Why not!? It’s FREE!

This is the first TRP Giveaway with amazing prizes to enhance your career from our Industry partners!

Sign-Up Now to See all of our awesome prizes from our amazing sponsors:

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Spread the Word!!!! And join us now!!~

https://mailchi.mp/testreadypro.../giveaway-opt-in-challenge

Canadian Forces Career - CFAT/eCFAT  Test coming up? Get the TRADE you WANT the First Time! Start with Testreadypro.com

In support of and referenced from:  http://rmcclubns.ca/

Learn how to prepare for and take the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test.

TestReadyPro.com provides Canadian Forces Applicants with CFAT/eCFAT test preparation with complete online learning resources, with printable text including unlimited practice tests, real-time answers and explanations - covering Math and Math Problem Solving, Verbal, Spatial and additional information.

One of the early steps in the recruiting and selection process consists of the candidate taking an aptitude test at a Canadian Armed Forces Recruiting Centre. This test examines a candidate's abilities in the following three broad areas:

- verbal skills

- spatial ability

- problem solving

The problem solving portion of the test involves basic mathematics abilities, e.g. addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, ratios, and algebraic equations. No calculators are allowed, so candidates must be able to work out answers using pencil and paper.

The test is time-limited and conssists of a series of multiple choice questions with four potential answers for each question. In order to perform well on this aptitude test, it is essential for a candidate to answer as many questions as possible. The optimum strategy is for the candidate to:

a. go through the entire test as quickly as possible, choosing answers that are known to be correct and skipping all questions where the answers are not immediately obvious;

b. go through the entire test a second time, examining previously unanswered questions in some detail but still briefly and choosing answers that are considered most likely correct. Again, skip any questions for which no potential answer seems correct;

c. to through the entire test a third times, checking off "c" or the longest answer as a best guess for all previously unanswered questions. Candidates have to monitor time remaining and ensure that there is sufficient available to go through this third step for all outstanding questions; and

d. if there is still time available, go back through the questions answered in step "b" to confirm your choice of answers.

There are no penalties for wrong answers, so it really is to the candidate's benefit to indicate an answer for every question.

The Canadian Armed Forces aptitude test is a demanding mental activity. Candidates need to be well-rested and have eaten a nutritious and balanced meal shortly before taking the test.

As a word of caution, many websites advertise for this service but many are not credible. Test ReadyPro.com  encourages you to evaluate the services and contact us for any questions you may have.

Visit: TestReadyPro.com

Each occupation in the Canadian Armed Forces has a minimum achievement level for the aptitude test. If a candidate fails to achieve the minimum level for their chosen occupation, a one-time retest can be taken but only after a three-month wait. This waiting period can impact whether a candidate can complete the recruiting and selection processes in time for the upcoming start of the Colleges' academic year.

 Welcome to 2021! Truly, there has never been a better time to achieve your career dream – as almost all sectors in Emergency Services are desperate to hire qualified candidates – from policing (OPP, Regional Services, RCMP across the Country!) to Canadian Forces, Special Constable and Security, Paramedic Services to name just a few! We have been the leader in Career Preparation for OVER 15 YEARS helping you not only pass, but GET HIRED!  With issues such as Mental Health and emphasis on Leadership combined with changes in hiring procedures we have adapted to offer you the opportunity to take our Certificate Courses to build your portfolio!

Check out our course list! We are here to help you get hired for almost 15 years!

https://www.testreadypro The emergency services industry has never been more competitive than it is today and preparation is critical for every step in the hiring process.  So, we’re ready when you are! Best of luck this year in your pursuits and if you have any questions, call me!

The desire to become a Police Officer, Firefighter, Nurse or Paramedic, Soldier etc is a career choice that many feel deeply drawn to.  Yet every year, potentially good candidates don’t realize their dream because once faced with the entrance test or recruitment process, they are totally overwhelmed and unprepared.  Sadly, in an instant, their goals and dreams become unachievable.

Having faced a similar challenge earlier in my career, I discovered there were simply no truly effective resources available to help prepare me in my pursuit of a career in emergency services. I had the education but I needed the skills to pass the entrance test and interview process. 

Since then, our team has collaborated with professionals in every course or service we offer, such as active Police Recruitment officers, Forces Members, Constables, Firefighters, Chiefs etc. etc,  to develop the Test Ready Pro (TRP) Program.  Working with a highly qualified network of professionals ensures that clients receive the best and most current test preparation support throughout the entire recruitment process.

At TRP, we know that your success depends on four elements: learning, practice, preparation and advancement ­— and it’s no coincidence that these comprise our Building Blocks™ To Success! This is why the TRP Program is so powerful and so effective! When you decide to become a TRP Member you can begin preparing for your entrance test and recruitment process with access to a complete array of tools and resources. You will also benefit from our selection of Preferred Partners that provide TRP Members with valuable career development and resources at substantial discounts.

Today the TRP Program is helping hundreds of candidates prepare for their entrance tests and recruitment process. I encourage you to become a TRP Member today, so you can successfully begin realizing your career aspirations and dreams.

Sincerely,
Chris Bedwell
January, 2021

MENTAL HEALTH FOR FIRST RESPONDERS' CERTIFICATE COURSE, BUILD YOUR RESUME!

Build Your Resume with this Mental Health for First Responders Certificate Course.

First responders are the individuals who provide services in the immediate aftermath of an emergency. They represent a variety of disciplines, and may include law enforcement officials, medical personnel, mental health providers, firefighters, and search and rescue teams. While first responders face the possibility of physical harm from environmental and other exposures, their work may also negatively impact their mental health.

The intention of this course is to provide you with information about mental wellness and developing mental resiliency as a first responder. It is also designed to shed light on what it’s like to work as a first responder and challenges you may face..

Mental Health is a key priority and issue facing all First Responders, ensure you have this valuable certificate in your portfolio!

This is recommended course for all ENTRY LEVEL and CURRENT APPLICANTS to all Emergency Services across Canada and the US!

Learn more at: https://www.testreadypro.com/mental-health-for-first-responders-certificate-course-build-your-resume

You Don't Have To Go To Texas for Firefighter NFPA 1001 Anymore!

It's been a long time coming! And it's about time. For those who do not know, you now can do your full Firefighter Training (Pre-Service) NFPA 1001 1-11 online in a blended format in ONTARIO!!!

This is BIG news! Why attend a full two years at an Ontario College? Why leave the country to attend the same training in the United States?

If you are exploring you're education options, I cannot stress this enough - look into FESTI (Fire Emergency Services Training Institute) at the GTAA. I personally have attended many information sessions, I personally have spoken with the administration up to the Chief and cannot articulate enough about how professional and impressive not only is the training you will endure but the facilities (fire ground) with exemplary Instructors with practical hands-on experience are equally impressive and exciting.

Here is the official information, my recommendation - forget Pre-Service College full-time and Texas, go with FESTI.

NFPA 1001 Level I - II FIREFIGHTER TRAINING - BLENDED PROGRAM

Presented by, the Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute, Canada's Premiere Fire Training College.

$7622.90, including HST and certification examination fees

The Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) is registered as a private career college under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005, by the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities and is listed under Greater Toronto Airports Authority (PCC- 113530).

FESTI’s National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 Level I - II Firefighter Training - Blended Program is one of a kind and offers a new and exciting approach to fire training in Canada, and is approved as a vocational program under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005, by the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities. Additionally our course is recognized by the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management (OFMEM) and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC).

Our online platform has been developed utilizing a blended learning strategy that incorporates a variety of learning tools and aids to assist students in successfully completing the theoretical portion of the program. Throughout this component, learning comprehension is evaluated by completing activities and assignments, which are submitted to program instructors for grading and feedback or are automatically graded with feedback. These required elements ensure students understand the learning objectives of each module, which is validated by the use of end of module evaluations. Once all individual elements have been successfully completed the learner can proceed to the next program module.

Upon successful completion of all  theoretical program elements, students qualify to attend FESTI to complete a mandatory, 4 week, intensive practical training and testing program. This practical phase challenges individuals to demonstrate their acquired knowledge through hands-on practice. Aided by live demonstration from one of our qualified Instructors, students will learn all of the skills necessary to challenge the OFMEM provincial written and skill examinations. FESTI optimizes the learning environment by maintaining a five -to-one student instructor ratio during all practical evolutions, and restricts the number of students to a maximum of sixteen per session.

This high level of individual attention creates an excellent developmental environment for the motivated recruit level firefighter to successfully complete all of the requirements and earn not only International Fire Service Accreditation Congress, NFPA 1001 Level I & II and 472 Operations Level certification, but the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) accreditation as well.

Students registering for the program will be automatically assigned to their practical sign-off portion of the course, ensuring their place for the practical training. Students must schedule 3 months to complete their theory portion of the program and then be available to attend FESTI for the 4 weeks of practical skills development and assessment.

Students are required to purchase a copy of the IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting 6th edition which is the required manual for this program. This textbook will be utilized throughout the program including the practical phase of training, and can be purchased through IFSTA’s website at http://info.ifsta.org/essentials-6th. The cost for the text is the ONLY additional cost the student is required to pay above the advertised course fee. All of the personal protective equipment needed during the practical portion of the program is supplied at no additional cost.

Our staff are NFPA certified Fire Service Instructors, OFMEM Trainer Facilitators and/or active fire officers who bring their wealth of experience and expertise to field training exercises. The program combines current, comprehensive theoretical firefighting knowledge with considerable practical skills development, in a variety of areas such as fire behavior, fire ground operations, environmental protection, rescue operations, education and fire prevention in the community, just to name a few.

For further information and an overview of the course, please watch this short video presentation.

What are the additional benefits for of students attending FESTI?

• The flexibility of completing the theory portion of the program at home

• Only 4 weeks of on-site training required complete all practical elements

• FESTI owns and operates the state of the art live fire training facilities, which means students will experience more practical fire training than any other program, anywhere

• No hidden fees

• A fire academy environment that leads to greater retention and success

• A safe, modern training environment with realistic props and firefighting equipment

• Students experience fire service culture by wearing uniforms, completing daily inspections, and much more

 

Let's talk about Ontario Fire Administration Inc. (OFAI) Firefighter Candidate Testing NFST Test

Let's talk about OFAI Candidate Testing. I've had literally 20 phone calls this week with questions about this process for Ontario Firefighter Testing Preparation regarding the Ontario Fire Administration Candidate Testing Certificate.

First I will post the specific steps involved directly from the OFAI website and then discuss the main question I received from the calls....

Here is the formal information from OFAI:

In order to be eligible for consideration for employment in a fire department within the Ontario fire service, the following IS required:

Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application.
Legally entitled to work for any employer in Canada (citizen/landed immigrants).
Free of any criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted.
Possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD –Grade 12) or academic equivalency.
Ability to work on rotating shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Speak, read and write English fluently, and communicate clearly and precisely under demanding, high-pressure.
Have a Standard First Aid certificate and a CPR level HCP (for Health Care Providers) dated not more than 12 months prior to the closing date of application and maintained current within 12 months throughout the recruitment and selection process.

In order to be eligible for consideration for employment in a fire department within the Ontario fire service, a municipality MAY require you to have the following credentials.

Please note that each municipality in the province of Ontario is responsible for their own hiring criteria and it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that they are aware of the hiring criteria when submitting an application for employment.

Pre-Service Fire Fighter Education & Training Program Certification, OR
NFPA 1001 Fire Fighter I & II certified from an accredited program from a recognized institution, accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or the Pro Board, OR
OFM curriculum components 1,2 and 3 with examination certificate, OR
Minimum two years experience as a full-time firefighter in a municipal fire department, OR
Minimum five years experience as a part-time firefighter in a municipal fire department.
Possession and maintenance of a valid unrestricted Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License. Eligibility will depend on the candidate having no more that two (2) infractions (maximum of one moving and one non-moving conviction).
Some municipal fire services ask for an Ontario “D-Z” driver’s licence at the time of application and/or within a timeframe of the hiring date. Applicants with more than 6 demerit points are ineligible for consideration. Please note that it is the candidate’s responsibility to obtain this licence. Costs associated with obtaining the Ontario “D-Z” driver’s licence will be incurred by the candidate. If you have a “D-Z” licence, you must have fewer than three (3) CVOR demerit points and/or infractions three years prior to start date.
Tread water or swim test.

Experience and qualifications that serve as an asset in your application can include:

Completion of higher-level EMS First Aid and/or medical training.
A minimum of one year of prior full-time work experience, fire suppression, construction, trades, mechanical, emergency medical, large vehicle operation or fire prevention related experience.
Fluency in a second language or sign language.·
Community service involvement.

All applicants to a career firefighter position within the Ontario fire service are required to complete a series of tests to be considered eligible to perform safely and competently as a firefighter in Ontario.

These tests may include aptitude and interpersonal skills tests, vision and hearing screening, physical (clinical) testing and some form of technical skills testing..

In order to be eligible for consideration for employment in a municipal fire department within the Ontario fire service, you are required to:

Have uncorrected 20/30 vision in each eye without corrective
Normal colour vision
Normal unaided hearing

The Firefighter Testing OFAI Certification Steps:

Stage One - National Fire Select Test
Stage Two, Part One - Medical Screening
Stage Two, Part Two - Clinical Assessment
CPAT Orientation (optional)
Stage Three, Part One - Candidate Physical Ability Test
Stage Three, Part Two - Firefighter Technical Skills Assessment

So....to the questions I most commonly get asked:

First, the written test:

The entry-level firefighter test consists of two sections: a general aptitude test and a personality inventory. The NFST includes:

Reading Ability
Mathematical Reasoning
Map Reading
Writing Ability
Human Relations (to include: interpersonal skills, teamwork, commitment, honesty,integrity, emotional stability)
Reasoning Skills (to include: reasoning, vocabulary, mechanical aptitude, and spatial rotation)

The National Fire Select Test™ is completed in a proctored classroom environment in a computer lab. Candidates are required to complete the test in two hours and thirty minutes. This test is valid for a period of 24 months. If you do not pass the National Fire Select Test, you may re-take it after thirty days. An orientation guide can be purchased to assist you in preparation for this test.The National Fire Select Test results in either a pass/fail. Candidates are not given feedback in regards to the results of the test. You can take a practice National Fire Select Test™ here.

Candidates will not receive a mark. In addition, municipal fire services are not given results.

How to prepare? Most candidates who do not prepare or who have written this type of test under pressure will fail - math is the main reason, time constraints and simply not being ready all combine for a failure - do yourself a favour and prepare, and prepare early!

Now the second most commonly asked question, how to I prepare for Stage 3 - Firefighter Technical Skills Assessment.

This is a MAJOR failure point for candidates. Why? Because it requires practice and familiarity with PPE and common skills and if you haven't been in an active fire department as a volunteer or in pre-service, you will likely have a lot of trouble with this.

I can suggest and DO HIGHLY suggest that you take a refresher course at FESTI - Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute - LINK: https://elearning.festi.ca/festi/views/cart/products/125.html

Here are the details for Stage 3:

Stage Three, Part Two - Firefighter Technical Skills Assessment

The Firefighter Technical Skills Assessments are based on of Bona Fide Occupational Requirements based on NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II. Each candidate will be given specific instructions and MUST perform each evolution as per the evaluator instructions and in the safest manner possible. Candidates will move through each evolution in the same order. Each evolution has a time limit of 10 minutes. You must pass each evolution skill to receive a final pass to obtain your OFAI certificate. The Firefighter Technical Skills Assessment is valid for 12 months. If you are not successful in this assessment, candidates can register to re-take this assessment after thirty days.

Pre-appraisal screening

All candidates will participate in the pre-appraisal screening before continuing with the Stage Three Assessments. A series of questions will be asked by the medical officer. In addition, the ParQPlus form, and if required, Physician Physical Activity Readiness Clearance form must be completed to identify those candidates for whom certain physical activities might be inappropriate. Anyone answering YES to any questions on the ParQPlus Form MUST get their Physician to complete at Physician Physical Activity Readiness Clearance form before they can continue with testing.

ParQPlus Form

Physician Physical Activity Readiness Clearance Form

Candidate’s heart rate and blood pressure are measured prior to proceeding.Candidates will not be permitted to participate in the clinical assessment if their resting heart rate exceeds 100 beats per minute. The last component of the pre-appraisal screening involves measuring the candidates resting blood pressure. Resting blood pressure will be measured using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope.Candidates will not be permitted to participate in the clinical assessment if their resting systolic blood pressure measurement is greater than 140 mm Hg and/or their resting diastolic blood pressure is greater than 90 mm Hg. Candidates are given three blood pressure readings. If after the first measurement, you may be asked to rest in the cafeteria and come back in a specific time. If after the third reading and your blood pressure is still high, you will not be able to participate.

Once each component of the pre-appraisal screening is successfully completed, the candidate is cleared to participate in Stage Three assessment.

Please Note: In order for candidates to be successful in the Firefighter Technical Skills Assessment, some form of formal firefighter training should be completed to complete the six evolutions.

Please Also Note: Candidate will be required to perform all of the evolutions dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Candidates may bring their own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). If you do not have your own, we have many types and sizes available. It will be up to each candidate to ensure they have the proper PPE and that it is donned properly.

SCBA will be provided on-site

The six evolutions and descriptions are described below. They are in the order in which you take the assessment:

Skill1: 10 Metre Ladder Climb

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this skill test. Candidates will use the following equipment:

Bunker gear, helmet and gloves
10m ladder tied off to balcony railing
Pick head axe
Rope
Safety Harness
You will be required to wear a safety harness for this skill. Candidates must prepare the axe for lifting using the appropriate rope & clove hitch knot. You will climb a ladder until you encounter a rung with tape wrapped around it and apply a leg lock around the taped rung. Turn your lower foot outwards, let go both hands and touch your toes. Climb to the 3rd floor balcony and step off the ladder and on to the balcony. Lift axe up to balcony and then lower back to the ground. Climb back onto the ladder and descend.

Skill 2: Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Proficiency Test

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) with a SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) and a blacked out face mask for this skill test. Candidates will use the following equipment:

Bunker gear, helmet and gloves, flash hood
SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus)
Blacked out face mask
Don SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) and a blacked out face mask. Approach SCBA Proficiency structure, on air, enter the structure when indicated to do so and perform proper search technique through the entire maze passing each obstacle as they are encountered. Exit at the point of entry, once the proper search has been completed. Do not attempt to stand up while inside maze. At any point you feel uncomfortable inside the maze please indicate so to your evaluator. For assessment purposes the evaluator will accompany you to observe you.

Skill 3: Roof Ventilation

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) for this skill test. Candidates will use the following equipment:

Bunker gear, helmet and gloves
SCBA
Roof ladder
Pick head axe
Pike pole
The candidate must wear full personal protective equipment with SCBA on air to perform this skill. You must choose the equipment needed to ventilate the roof. Positioned on the roof, demonstrate making adequate openings in the structure for ventilation purposes by cutting a 22” x 22” vent hole. Simulates opening the ceiling using the axe or pike pole. Returns to the ground and replaces tools at the starting position. For assessment purposes the evaluator will stay at the foot of the roof simulator and observe you.

Skill 4: 7 Metre Ladder Roof Ladder Raise

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this skill test. Candidates will use the following equipment:

Bunker gear, helmet and gloves
One 7m ladder
One roof ladder
You must be dressed in full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for this skill test. Using proper lifting techniques, pick up the 7m ladder and do a one firefighter raise with the assistance of a staff member at the butt of the ladder for safety reasons. Position the ladder to gain access to the roof with a roof ladder. Once the ladder is in place, switch positions with the staff member, untie the halyard and raise the fly to the correct height. Set the correct angle of the ladder and tie off the halyard using a clove hitch over the rung and halyard. Climb the ladder with a roof ladder, apply a leg lock and properly place the roof ladder on the peak of the roof. FESTI staff will secure the tip of the ladder to ensure that it does not slide.

Skill 5: Fine Motor Skills Hose Assembly

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this skill test. Candidates will use the following equipment:

1 length of 100mm hose
2 lengths of 65mm hose
1 length of 45mm hose
2 gated wyes (100mm to two 65mm and 65mm to two 38mm)
45mm combination nozzle
65mm nozzle
Make all connections with the appropriate hose and appliances provided in the timeliest manner possible.

With the hose and appliances provided, establish a water supply from a 100mm hose to two 65mm hoses.

One 65mm hose will terminate with a 65mm nozzle. The other 65 mm hose will terminate with a gated wye reduced to two 38mm discharges.

One 45mm attack line must be attached to the 38mm gated wye and terminated with a combination nozzle on the end.

Skill #6 - Medical Skills

Each candidate must be dressed properly in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this skill test.

In order to successfully complete this skills test, candidates must have the training and competence required to insert a properly sized oropharyngeal airway, operate a bag valve mask, apply an adult non-re-breather mask and describe the oxygen flow rate or concentration required.

You will be instructed to perform the following emergency medical skills.

Patient Assessment/Management - Trauma skills

In this skill, you will perform your assessment and "voice" treatment for all conditions and injuries discovered. You should conduct your assessment as you would in the field, including communicating with your Simulated Patient.

You may remove the Simulated Patient's clothing down to his/her shorts or swimsuit if you feel it is necessary. As you progress through this skill, you should state everything you are assessing. Specific clinical information not obtainable by visual or physical inspection, for example blood pressure, will be given to you only when you ask following demonstration of how you would normally obtain that information in the field.

You may assume you have two (2) partners working with you who are trained to your level of care. They will correctly perform the verbal treatments you indicate necessary.

Evaluator will acknowledge your treatments and may ask you for additional information if clarification is needed.

Bag-Valve-Mask Ventilation Of an Apneic Adult Patient

This skill is designed to evaluate your ability to provide immediate and aggressive ventilatory assistance to an apneic adult patient who has no other associated injuries.

This is a non-trauma situation and cervical precautions are not necessary. You are required to demonstrate sequentially all procedures you would perform, from simple maneuvers, suctioning, adjuncts, and ventilation with a BVM.

You must actually ventilate the manikin for at least one (1) minute with each adjunct and procedure utilized.

The evaluator will serve as your trained assistant and will be interacting with you throughout this skill. Evaluator will correctly carry-out your orders upon your direction.

Important to Note: You will be asked before each evolution if you understand the directions and if you would like to voluntary withdraw.

Please note that Ontario Fire Administration Inc. reserves the right to change the order of the Firefighter Technical Skills at any time due to weather and logistics.

Cost: $250.00 plus HST

Here is the link for OFAI: http://www.ofai.ca/

I do highly suggest that while the opportunities for getting a full time career firefighter job has certainly never been this great, the competition is most certainly mush greater - and - the costs of testing much higher. MAKE SURE YOUR PREPARE EARLY AND OFTEN!!! 

Best of luck in your career! Have a question - ask me!

For Firefighter Test Preparation for the NFTS for OFAI Visit: https://www.testreadypro.com/products/firefighter-course/


FIREFIGHTER TESTING (CPS Test O/S and NFST test)

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