General Information
Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical department requires a current (within one year from date of issue), valid CPAT certificate at the time of application. CPAT is a joint International Associaton of Firefighters (IAFF) and International Associaton of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) initiative to determine the minimum physical abilities of candidates. A summary of the test is as follows:
This is not meant to be a complete and accurate description of CPAT.
This is a pass/fail test based on a nationally validated maximum total time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds to complete this test. The applicant is required to wear a 50-pound weight vest throughout the test. The sequence of events are as follows:
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- Stair Climb – climbing stairs while carrying an additional 25 pounds, simulated hose pack.
- Hose Drag – stretching uncharged hoselines, advancing lines.
- Equipment Carry – removing and carrying equipment from fire apparatus to fireground.
- Ladder Raise and Extension – placing a ground ladder at the fire scene and extending the ladder to the roof or a window.
- Forcible Entry – penetrating a locked door, breaching a wall.
- Search – crawling through dark unpredictable areas to search for victims.
- Rescue Drag – removing victim or partner from a fire building.
- Ceiling Breach and Pull – locating fire and checking for fire extension.
Special Note: The Firefighter CPAT is very strenuous. If you have had a recent illness, surgery or are under medication, verify with your healthcare provider if it is safe for you to take the test.
Preparation Guide
Preparation Guide for the CPAT (PDF)