Take fire science and other college courses Although not required, taking fire science classes and other college courses gives you a better understanding of what the fire department does. It also shows that you have the interest and initiative to commit to a career in the fire service.
Make exercise part of your lifestyle There’s no getting around the fact that emergency responders have a physically demanding job. Work some form of cardio and strength training into your routine every day. Physical fitness not only helps you perform the job better but will also help prevent you from getting hurt.
Get involved in your community Emergency responders are the first line of caregivers in the community and frequently respond to very emotional situations. Volunteering your time to help others shows that you have the empathy to put people first, often before your own comfort.
Practice being resilient Emergency responders must have the ability to adapt to ever changing and challenging situations. Get comfortable doing things that get you out of your comfort zone. Don’t be discouraged if you are not hired on your first try. Some of our best firefighters tested and interviewed three, four or even five times before they were hired.
Assessments
Firefighter and Firefighter/Paramedic Assessment Process
The assessment process includes a written examination covering reading comprehension, tool identification, basic math, grammar, reasoning, and spelling.
Top-scoring candidates are invited to complete a physical fitness test which consists of five fitness test events and a 1.5 mile run.
Top-scoring candidates are then invited to complete a video-based oral board interview.
Lastly, candidates who have a high combined score from their written examination and oral board interview will be invited to a selection interview.
You must also pass a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) consisting of a sequence of 8 activities completed within a set time limit.
The final steps in the hiring process are a psychological examination, background investigation and medical examination that includes drug and alcohol screening.
Paramedic Ambulance Operator Assessment Process
The assessment process includes a written examination covering reading comprehension, basic math, grammar, and advanced life support medical questions.
Top-scoring candidates are then invited to an oral board interview that includes practical medical skill evaluations.
Top-scoring candidates from this process are then invited to a selection interview.
The final steps in the hiring process are a psychological examination, background investigation and medical examination that includes drug and alcohol screening.
Henderson Fire
