If you’re interested in becoming a New York State Firefighter, it’s important to be physically fit, have strong teamwork and communication skills, and be able to work well under pressure. A successful candidate for a firefighter position should also be committed to public service and willing to make sacrifices to help others in need.
To begin the process of becoming a New York State firefighter, you’ll need to apply to take the firefighter exam. There is no formal training before you take the written exam because the exam is not meant to test your physical abilities or knowledge of the job.
Research the fire department: Before your interview, take some time to research the fire department and understand its mission, values, and priorities. This will show the interviewer that you are interested in the department and that you are prepared for the interview.
Apply
The New York State firefighter exam is typically offered every four years, meaning you have plenty of time to prepare. Once you pass the written test, you also must do an in-person interview with the fire department.
After you’ve passed the written exam, you are only considered a firefighter applicant. Once you’re hired, you’ll also need to complete a Certified First Responder with Defibrillation Certificate by the end of your probationary period.
But first, let’s focus on the exam.
Preparing for the exam
If you are taking an assessment for a firefighter position with the New York State Fire Department, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Review the job requirements: Make sure you understand the requirements of the role you’re applying for and what the department is looking for in a candidate.
- Study the firefighting techniques and procedures: Familiarize yourself with the standard firefighting techniques and procedures, as well as the tools and equipment used by firefighters.
- Practice physical fitness: Firefighting is a physically demanding job, so make sure you are in good physical shape and can perform the required tasks, such as carrying heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and crawling in tight spaces.
- Practice teamwork and communication: Firefighting requires teamwork and effective communication, so practice working with others to solve problems and complete tasks.
- Practice problem-solving: Firefighters are often called upon to solve problems and make quick decisions, so practice your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.
- Get plenty of rest and hydrate: Make sure you are well-rested and hydrated before taking the assessment, as this can help you perform your best.
- Arrive on time and dressed appropriately: Make sure you arrive on time for the assessment and are dressed appropriately for the physical activities involved.
Start practice today and improve your hiring chances
The New York State Firefighter position is a physically and mentally demanding role that requires individuals to respond to emergency situations and work as part of a team to control fires, provide medical assistance, and help keep communities safe. Some of the key responsibilities of a New York State Firefighter may include:
- Responding to emergency calls: Firefighters must be able to respond quickly and effectively to emergency calls, including fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous material incidents.
- Operating firefighting equipment: Firefighters must be skilled in using firefighting equipment, such as hoses, ladders, and fire extinguishers, to control fires and rescue people from burning buildings.
- Providing medical assistance: Firefighters may be called upon to provide basic medical assistance, such as administering CPR or treating burns, in addition to their firefighting duties.
- Maintaining firefighting equipment: Firefighters must ensure that their equipment is properly maintained and in good working order at all times.
- Participating in training: Firefighters must participate in ongoing training to keep their skills up-to-date and improve their ability to respond to emergencies.
- Working as part of a team: Firefighting is a team-based profession, and firefighters must be able to work effectively with others to control fires, provide medical assistance, and keep communities safe.
