Firefighters, First Responders, who are ready to sacrifice their own lives to save others in various situations, are tough men and women, who stay in good shape and train hard. Whether they fight wildfires, save people from burning houses or cats from trees, they work hard and long shifts to protect the populace.

Motto: "When I'm called to duty God, Wherever flames may rage, Give me the strength to save a life, Whatever be its age."

Established in: "1811"

The CPAT, which stands for the Candidate Physical Ability Test, is a common measurement testing event used to evaluate future firefighter candidates. A candidate needs to pass the CPAT to become a firefighter. To join, one must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. Citizen.

Entry Test Firefighters

This test involves 8 different exercises, which have to be completed in the listed order. There is no break between each event. The candidates wear 50 lbs of gear or a weighted vest. They start with a stair climb. Sometimes they test it on real stairs, or in a gym setting. This is followed by dragging a hose across from one side to another, basically simulating real-life exercises. Then the candidates carry equipment from one side to another, showcase their abilities to carry a ladder, and then extending it fully when it lies against a building. They then showcase the ability of handling equipment for force entry, crawl through a blacked-out tunnel, drag a dummy, and showcase the ability to breach and pull through a ceiling.

U.S. Firefighter Academy

The entry test to the Firefighting Academies usually differ. It is usually the CPAT test, but with fewer weights, and the time limit is capped to 8 minutes. For some States, one can go through Firefighter Academy online. To join a Firefighting academy is one way. The other way is to attend the specific department's academy once a candidate is hired. During Firefighting Academy, the candidates will learn about the practical, as well as the theoretical aspect of the job. They also will undergo live-fire drills, to teach the students how to handle the fire. All academies usually last 3 months for 600 hours of training. It is also possible to gather important knowledge through a degree in fire science. With this degree, it might also be possible to be eligible for higher ranking positions in the Firefighting World.

Firefighter Quotes

"A Hero's Not Somebody Who's Unafraid, It's The Guy Who's Scared And Does What's Right Anyway." (Chicago Fire)

"All men are created equal, then a few become firemen"

A firefighters prayer: When I am called to duty, God wherever flames may rage, give me the strength to save a life, whatever be its age. Help me to embrace a little child before it's too late, or save an older person from the horror of that fate. Enable me to be alert to hear the weakest shout, and quickly and efficiently to put the fire out. I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me, to guard my neighbor and protect his property. And if according to your will I have to lose my life, bless with your protecting hand my loving family from strife (IAFC.org)