A youth academy and scientific fitness testing are among the new tools Coquitlam Fire/Rescue is using to seek recruits for 2020 and the future.
Potential firefighter candidates for 2020 must meet the Coquitlam department's requirement for scientific V02 Max endurance testing, which includes walking on a gradually increasing incline wearing weighted vests while heart rate, breathing and other metrics are recorded. Candidates are encouraged to book their testing appointment between now and July 19 to secure a guaranteed appointment before the formal application process begins in September.
Specialized Fitness Testing Required Prior to Application
The 158-member department is one of the few in Metro Vancouver to require firefighter candidates to complete this specialized testing, often used by elite athletes to assess aerobic ability and - increasingly - by fire departments to provide a quantifiable measurement of candidates' fitness levels.
Introduced by Coquitlam in 2018, the V02 Max testing provides a benchmark for potential candidates, which must be at least 19 years old and meet a variety of minimum qualifications outlined at www.coquitlam.ca/firecareers. Today's firefighters respond to a wide variety of emergency and non-emergency incidents, and candidates with diverse experiences, ethnicities and genders are encouraged.
Junior Firefighter Program Supports Long-term Recruitment Goals
For younger people interested in learning more about firefighting, the department launched a Junior Firefighter Program this spring in partnership with School District 43.
Twelve Grade 11 and 12 students spent eight action-packed days during spring break completing a condensed version of the eight-week firefighter basic training program, covering everything from fire theory to using the Jaws of Life to cut up cars. By the end of the program, participants had gained a greater understanding of the job and several expressed an interest in pursuing a firefighting career.
The application process for the 2020 Junior Firefighter Program will begin in November and include an application form, personal interview and fitness test (V02 Max testing is not required).
For More Information
More details and City YouTube videos on V02 Max testing and the Junior Firefighter Program can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/firecareers. A link to the Junior Firefighter Program application is in the Career & Trades Programs section at www.sd43.bc.ca.
