FireLink

I get regular emails from the Don McNea Fire School about firefighting exam updates around the country and I got this one today:

Cleveland, Ohio, Examination Update

The next Cleveland Firefighter Exam is anticipated for July 2009 with sign-up anticipated for June 2009.  Over 100 firefighters will be hired from this list.  If you would like to be put on a mailing list to be notified when the exam will be and when Don McNea Fire School will conduct classes, call 440-572-3919.  Please note – City of Cleveland residents receive an extra  10 points on your examination score.

I am stoked! I know it's a year away, but that just gives me more time to study and get into shape. It's also really cool that they will be hiring over 100 firefighters! It's a little disappointing that I won't get the 10 extra points because I don't actually live IN Cleveland, but I'm pretty sure that the Women in FireFighting Orientation gave us like 5 points or something. If anyone has some good advice for studying and preparation, that would be great! Well, thanks in advance for any help!!

I dunno, I guess I'd like to know if you guys used any certian methods for studying. When I was in high school all the stuff I studied went into my short term memory, and I started studying for Basic and I kept doing the same thing. I would remember it for like a week, then forget about it. Also, in general for FF exams, do they include the CPAT or does that come after you pass the written exam? I've read some stuff on it, but I can't seem to get a straight answer. I've lost 30 lbs so far in the last 2 months and still working on it, and this fall I am going to start my basic course which is 10 weeks, then I am going to keep studying for the fire exam and getting into shape and take the exam in july. I REALLY hope I get in, that would be awesome!

Short answer. Hands on. Any volunteer squads around? Start going and getting dirty.  Many depts will let you participate to a point.(we do) You can go to a fire but you cannot jump in just yet. Get familiar with the tools of the trade.  That way instead of a clean-up jockey you can grab tools, get the water supply established, set up rehab, etc.  Be aware! Firefighting is very physical and we can be emotional(yelling, etc) Don't let this get in the way of your desire. You are learning and at least you can be on the fireground observing.  New hires and volunteers we train in house on the basics before they go to 101. This way they are not lost and already have focus.

The CPAT varies from state to state.  GA used to rely on individual depts to assess fitness standards, now it is part of 101(FF 1) training at the academy. Ohio Fire academy should have a website I think it is http://www.com.state.oh.us/sfm/fmac/ and look around for any info.

Hope this helps. MKB