Dallas Fire-Rescue mentors and prepares fire candidates for life on the job

Being a firefighter is a demanding job. A firefighter must have the strength and endurance to handle everyday duties that can push the limits of human tolerance. Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) knows that adequate preparation for the department’s physical agility test is essential to the success of each recruit.

That’s why DFR offers a six-week mentorship program to prepare potential fire recruits for the Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT) as part of their application process. This test consists of eight critical physical tasks that simulate actual job duties.

“Nothing prepares our recruits more for the CPAT than the mentoring program,” said DFR Public Information Officer Jason Evans. “Each evolution mimics a specific job-related skill set which demands a unique combination of strength and cardiovascular endurance that cannot be acquired through traditional strength and cardiovascular training.”

While some individuals may be able to pass the CPAT without the mentorship program, DFR encourages applicants to honestly assess their readiness prior to attempting it.

“It’s no secret that a high percentage of the applicants who undergo mentoring manage to move forward in the application process,” said Evans.

Information on DFR recruiting and the CPAT process can found here.