CPAT - PREPARATION

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The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is a new minimum requirement for the position of Firefighter. The job of a Firefighter is one of the most physically demanding jobs in North America. It requires high levels of cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength, and muscular endurance. The CPAT consists of eight critical physical tasks that simulate actual job duties on the fire ground. Candidates must provide proof of a current passing time on the CPAT from a certified CPAT testing center. A CPAT score is valid for one year. The City of South Bend will only accept the Candidate Physical Ability Test.   

1. WHAT IS THE CPAT? The CPAT is a standardized test administered by the South Bend Fire Department. The CPAT is a timed pass/fail test that consists of eight separate events (video walk-through and preparation guide can be found below):  

• Stair Climb 
• Hose Drag 
• Equipment Carry 
• Ladder Raise & Extension 
• Forcible Entry 
• Search 
• Rescue 
• Ceiling Breach & Pull 

During the CPAT, you must progress along a predetermined path from one event to the next in a continuous manner. Participants wear a 50-pound (22.68-kg) vest to simulate the weight of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and firefighter protective clothing. An additional 25 pounds (11.34 kg), using two 12.5-pound (5.67-kg) weights that simulate a high-rise pack (hose bundle), is added to your shoulders for the stair climb event. You have 10 minutes and 20 seconds to complete all eight tasks. It is your responsibility to schedule your own CPAT.  

1. WHAT ARE THE AGE REQUIREMENTS? Applicants must be 18 years of age and must show government-issued photo identification (i.e. driver's license, school, or military ID; or a passport or visa). Candidates without a photo ID will not be allowed to take the CPAT.  
2. WHERE CAN I TAKE THE CPAT? HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? The South Bend Fire Department will provide opportunities for our applicants to take the CPAT free of charge. Alternatively, you may schedule your CPAT at any Certified CPAT testing facility. 

If you pass the written exam, we will contact you via email to schedule your CPAT examination. 

Please note: Other CPAT Testing Centers may charge a fee for testing. The South Bend Fire Department will only accept CPAT results from a certified CPAT testing location. Certified CPAT testing locations can be found here: https://nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/cpat_info.cfm