Candidate Physical Abilities Testing (CPAT)

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:

    1. Stair Climb – climbing stairs while carrying an additional 25 pounds, simulated hose pack.
    2. Hose Drag – stretching uncharged hoselines, advancing lines.
    3. Equipment Carry – removing and carrying equipment from fire apparatus to fireground.
    4. Ladder Raise and Extension – placing a ground ladder at the fire scene and extending the ladder to the roof or a window.
    5. Forcible Entry – penetrating a locked door, breaching a wall.
    6. Search – crawling through dark unpredictable areas to search for victims.
    7. Rescue Drag – removing victim or partner from a fire building.
    8. 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)

 

Testing Locations