How to Become a California Fireman

Firefighters have a tough job in California with recent years of fires across the state

One of the toughest jobs in today's world is that of a California fireman. It is also one of the most sought after positions in the job market. Today's firefighters, especially those in fire-ridden California need superior courage to attack the treacherous fires that break out each year across the state. Do you have what it takes? Here are some steps to help you reach your goal of being a firefighter.

Things You'll Need

• Clean psychological and criminal record

Instructions

How to Become a California Fireman

1. The often drawn out process of becoming a fireman is administered through the county level in California. The process involves taking a written examination, physical agility exam, psychological exams, medical and background checks, and oral interview. You will find information on test dates and availability through your local county web site--such as the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA).

2. You must pass a written exam. The test commonly consists of approximately 150-200 multiple-choice questions. The subjects for the written examinations can include any of the subjects listed below: Reading Comprehension Human Relations Problem Solving Judgment Math Memory Charts The key to scoring well on the written examination is preparation. The competition for a firefighter position is very strong. When you take the firefighter examination, you are ranked from highest to lowest. The more you study and prepare, the better your score. Preparation can include taking practice exams and reading over study booklets for the exam to meeting with firemen in your local area and getting their advice and help.

3. The next step to moving up on the eligibility list and being chosen to be a California firefighter is the physical agility test. This is a major part of becoming a firefighter. Physically speaking, firefighting is an extremely demanding occupation. It requires agility, strength, and stamina. The environment is hazardous and constantly changing. Given the demands of the occupation it is important to make sure that firefighters are physically capable of learning and performing the tasks for the job. The physical agility examination is designed to evaluate the candidate's ability to perform firefighting activities. The national firefighter authority is looking for people with these skills: a high level of aerobic energy, strength, and a significant ability to resist fatigue.

4. A medical exam is also required. The medical exam is a simple physical exam. Your blood pressure, temperature, height and weightwill be measured; your heart and lungs will be listened to and your limbs examined. Drug testing is also required.

5. Psych Exam. All law enforment personnel and firefighters are required to undergo psychological exams due to the demanding and stressful nature of the job.

6. The next step of the process is an oral board exam. You will be questioned in front of a panel on your skills and what you will bring to the job. Many believe this is the key to becoming a fireman and a strong performance will get you to the top of the eligibility list. Practice makes perfect and it is key to have friends, relatives, other firemen you know ask you these questions so you are comfortable with giving responses. Questions aren't set but will be essentially an oral interview for the position. You can expect to hear these questions:Why do you want to be a firefighter? What have you done to prepare for this position? What are you bringing to the job? Why do you want to work for this city or agency? What do you like to do? What are your hobbies? What are your strengths? Weaknesses? The list goes on and on but the oral interview will be key to your success. Present yourself in a professional manner and prepare.

7. After you complete all these sections of the testing you will be ranked and you will know your ranking. Often times the top 10 percent or 20 percent continue on to be considered by area fire departments for hiring. Sometimes you can be at the top of the list and not get a call for months--it depends on the demand and need at the time. Again, preparation is key for the selective and high demand job of a firefighter but with a little preparation you will be well on your way to fighting fires and saving lives in California.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are able to participate in any volunteer fire programs, fire explorer, EMT or paramedics training that will definitely strengthen you as a candidate. Remember California fireman jobs are scarce and competitive and you have to make yourself stand out above the rest.

• Physical agility is important --prepare in advance through simple training exercies to make the day of the exam a breeze. Training exercises include regular runs, push ups, squats, lunges, sit ups and being able to carry heavy weight (obviously simulating saving a live person during a fire) so practice lifting weights.

• Since extensive background checks are done for firefighters be sure to disclose and be honest about your past.