Work Capacity Test aka The Pack Test
The work capacity test is another essential component to be completed before a candidate can be hired on to a wildland firefighting crew. This is a test that measures the aerobic and muscular fitness that will be needed to perform the arduous work of being on a fire crew.
Arduous work is defined as lifting more than 50 pounds, above average endurance and demands for extraordinarily strenuous activities. These activities are executed in extreme environmental conditions, steep terrain, smoke and intense temperatures for long periods of time. To determine that a candidate is at the needed level of work capacity to perform these duties while still being motivated, alert and able to maintain an energy reserve for unexpected emergencies, the Pack Test is conducted because of its similarities in the physical energy cost to that of fireline work.
The Pack Test consists of a 3 mile hike over level terrain while carrying a 45 pound pack. To pass, the candidate must complete the test within 45 minutes or less by walking, no jogging or running is permitted. This is equivalent to walking a 15 minute mile or four miles per hour or in others words about as fast as a cow can run. It is important to realize that the Pack Test is not a competition between other job candidates, simply a pass/fail to see if you will physically be able to perform fireline work so not to endanger yourself or the other crew members.
Another component to the Pack Test is before a candidate takes the test they must fill out a Health Screening Questionnaire (HSQ). This will be provided by the district and is not a medical physical.
A few recommendations for training are to start hiking a minimum of 4 weeks before you are scheduled to take the test on flat terrain without a pack. As it takes you less time to complete the course, add a pack that is roughly 25 pounds and increase the weight incrementally until you can hike 3 miles in 45 minutes with a 45 pound pack. It also helps to hike hills to build leg strength and endurance. To build aerobic endurance jog the course without a pack on or cross-train with mountain biking.
If you are wanting to apply for a firefighting position and live far away or in another state, please contact our office to make arrangements for taking an official Pack Test at a location closer to you. Important: You do not have to take the Pack Test prior to submitting your application.
|
