Becoming a firefighter requires passing a physical ability test. The CPAT events are stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, ladder raise and extension, forcible entry, search, rescue, ceiling breach and pull. Some jurisdictions create their own version of the CPAT that is tailored to their recruitment focus. Research what the testing requirements are in the jurisdictions you are applying in.

Most fire departments demand that all recruits have a clean criminal background with vulnerable sector screening. Some offences may be less of a deal breaker than others, however many departments have begun taking a zero tolerance approach for applicants with criminal records.

Recruitment officers will look you up on social media to see what kind of presence you have. If they see childish, immature, or radical behavior, they will likely drop you from the recruitment process. Firefighters are meant to be "Pillars of Society", so recruitment officers will be looking for any reason as to why you wont be.

While this is seldom checked by Canadian fire departments, many fire departments in the United States have begun requesting credit checks on applicants. Having a poor credit score, can sometimes lead to you being dropped from the process.

Working in public safety is all about community service. Volunteering your time for a great cause is one way to prove you're ready to serve your community. And it doesn't matter if it's fire-related or non-fire related. There's a lot of great opportunities out there for you to make a difference.

Firefighter applicants must undergo a psychological assessment to ensure that they are capable of dealing with the psychological demands of the job. Ensure that you work on improving your mental health just as much as you work on your physical fitness.

Getting entry-level firefighter certifications, such as Firefighter I and II, is a really good idea. Many departments require that you have this training before you apply. The Canadian Fire Rescue College provides this educational requirement. Successful students that graduate from our firefighting programs receive Pro Board® certifications, which are internationally recognized. This means that no matter where you apply, your educational achievements will be accepted.

Each fire department has their own written exam that you must take during the hiring process. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is divided into categories. The categories typically include reading ability, mathematical reasoning, map reading, and writing ability.

The Fire Chief and a board of representatives from the fire department will be present for this part of the hiring process. You need to be ready to answer hard questions, be sociable, and have good questions of your own to ask them.