CFFJAC Hosts Open House to Spotlight CPAT Testing Center!

Facility to Benefit Firefighter Candidates, Departments, Fire Service

On July 8th, the California Fire Fighter Joint Apprenticeship Committee (CFFJAC) hosted an “Open House” to showcase its new firefighter candidate testing center in the city of Orange. Over 100 fire chiefs, labor union leaders, training officers, human resource personnel and fitness trainers attended the event to visit the CFFJAC’s new site, and to learn more about how this new site will benefit fire departments and the fire service, in general. The event was a huge success – and special thanks goes out to Orange City Firefighters Local 2384 for barbequing up a delicious spread of great food for everyone.

Earlier that morning, several members of Los Angeles broadcast news affiliates and local newspapers arrived for a press conference for a first-hand look in to what it takes to become a firefighter. In fact, one news reporter from KTLA attempted the stair climbing event during the station’s morning newscast. “I have a whole new respect for what firefighters do,” she said as she tried to catch her breath. “This is tough!”

The CFFJAC Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) facility is the first center in the nation dedicated solely to the administration of the CPAT. “By making the CPAT available at one centralized location, our new testing center not only makes the test more accessible, but it also dramatically cuts costs to fire departments,” said CFFJAC Chair Dan Terry. “Departments that accept the CPAT Card of Completion are spared the time and expense of conducting their own physical ability testing.”

Some fire departments, such as LA City for example, have already taken the step of making the CPAT card a minimum requirement for becoming a firefighter. “Ultimately, our goal is to make this card the standard for all departments across California,” said Terry.

How the CPAT test works: For a modest registration fee, potential firefighter candidates receive an orientation and the test itself that simulates eight separate events that a firefighter would have to perform on the fire ground. These events include:

• Stair Climb
• Hose Drag
• Equipment Carry
• Ladder Raise and Extension
• Forcible Entry
• Search
• Rescue
• Ceiling Breach and Pull

Over a span of 10 minutes and 20 seconds, candidates must successfully complete the sequence of events wearing a 50-pound vest, simulating the weight of turnout gear and equipment. The test is graded on a pass/fail basis… successfully complete the test under the allotted time… and you get your CPAT Card of Completion.

This new Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) facility is yet another example of the CFFJAC’s successful endeavors to consistently remain on the cutting edge when it comes to firefighter education and training. The next generation of California firefighters will be better equipped to meet the physical demands of their profession, as the CFFJAC continues to administer the CPAT test at its new facility in Orange.

For more information on the CFFJAC’s CPAT testing center, log on to www.CPATonline.org; or call (877) 648-CPAT.