Functional Fitness Methods Emerge for Firefighter Prep
Training methodologies tailored for fireground duties are being emphasized for physical ability test preparation. Raw Functional Training (RFT) focuses on body-weight circuits and loaded carries, while the Manbility Fitness Test targets the specific muscular and cardiovascular stamina needed for firefighting tasks.
- The Seattle Fire Department's (SFD) hiring process includes the FireTEAM test, a Public Safety Self-Assessment (PSSA1), and an oral board exam. The top 1,500 candidates from the initial testing phase will be invited to the oral board examinations. Your final score is weighted with the NTN test score and a behavioral assessment each contributing to the final ranking on the public register. - For the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), SFD provides vouchers for top-ranking candidates to attend two orientation sessions and two practice tests through the National Testing Network. The CPAT is a pass/fail test consisting of eight events that must be completed in under 10 minutes and 20 seconds while wearing a 50-pound vest. A recommended training regimen includes interval running and stair climbing with a weighted pack to build cardiovascular and muscular endurance. - The FireTEAM cognitive exam consists of four sections: Human Relations, Mechanical Aptitude, Reading, and Math. The math and mechanical sections are presented as videos, and the math portion requires calculations to be done without a calculator. Practice tests are available for purchase through the National Testing Network's website to familiarize yourself with the format. - The SFD oral board interview is a formal, timed interview, often lasting about 15 minutes, where the panel does not have prior access to your resume. It is recommended to prepare for behavioral-based questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) as these are common in interviews for departments in Western Washington. - To gain a competitive edge, the SFD suggests gaining experience through volunteering with a local fire department and obtaining medical training such as advanced CPR or First Aid. While an EMT certification is not required to apply, it is a condition of hire, and the department may offer a limited number of spots in an SFD-led EMT course to successful candidates. - The SFD's "Fire Connect Podcast" is a resource for candidates, featuring interviews with current firefighters and command staff who offer advice and insights into the department's culture and expectations. The department's recruit training program is a 15.5-week, 700-hour course that provides the foundational knowledge and skills for a career with the SFD. - Station life at SFD operates on a four-shift schedule (A, B, C, and D shifts), with each shift working 24 hours. Firefighters at the Seattle Fire Department come from a wide range of backgrounds, and teamwork is a core value, with crews often cooking, training, and shopping for meals together. - New recruits can expect a physically and mentally demanding probationary period where they will be expected to continuously study and apply their knowledge in real emergencies. The department has a culture of constant improvement and offers various career paths, including opportunities to join technical teams like the dive team or pursue paramedic training.
