Look inside firefighter training at Jackson Fire Department
JACKSON, Tenn. — Do you have what it takes to be a firefighter? Eight applicants tested that theory as they underwent a physical agility test.
Think you can handle the heat? Several recruits did as they stepped up to the Jackson Fire Department’s physical agility test Thursday.
They had two minutes to climb up a 100-foot ladder.
“The rest of the test is pulling a fire hose, picking up a hose, hitting the roof prop with a hammer, carrying a hose up and down the stairs, and then, of course dragging that 165 pound dummy to make sure that they can drag victims and firefighters out if needed,” said David Dorris, Training Division Chief, Jackson Fire Department.
JFD’s assessment evaluates applicants’ physical ability to do the job and undergo future training.
“It’s a fun test,” Dorris said. “It’s a hard test, but it helps us make sure that we’re getting the right people for the right job.”
We spoke with one recruit as he reflects on the challenging course.
“I would have to say this is one of the harrowing ones, one of the tougher ones I’ve ever had where it makes you almost, legs weak, and you’re about to throw up almost,” said Ethan Lenney.
Chief Dorris says they’ve been doing this same test for at least the past 25 years, and Thursday, several recruits passed.
“It feels great. It feels awesome. I’m one step there,” Lenney said. “Now, I need to go do my written exam, hopefully, I can pass that, and , hopefully, I can be a firefighter.”
“Being a part of the recruit training program is probably one of the most rewarding things we get to do,” said Chief Dorris.
One unique aspect of the agility test is utilizing senior recruits to time and encourage new recruits.
While the soon-to-be firefighters thought they had a light day, Chief Dorris surprised them with a test of their own.
“I haven’t told them that yet, so they’ll get a surprise before they get to see this,” Dorris said. “So, we’re going to have them run this exact test wearing all of our turnout gear and SCBA [self-contained breathing apparatus], breathing air.”
Recruits that did not pass today are able to retake the test in a month.
If you’re interested in joining the department, click here to learn more.
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