washed

It's tough enough to get this job. You need to be ready to keep it. I talked to another candidate last night who had a fire job. Then he lost it because he wasn't physically fit enough to make it through the academy. This is not the first time I have received this a kind of call. What could these people be thinking? They just show up at the academy out of shape with no stamina.

Just because you passed the physical agility, doesn't mean you're ready for the academy. Departments know the standards for the physical agility have been lowered over the years. They're going to make sure you can do the job or they will wash you out. This is not a casual walk in the park where you can build up your strength, agility and stamina along the way. You need to hit the ground running. Often you will work harder in the academy then you will during your career.

You never want them to know where your goat is tied. Once the training staff determines you don't have what it takes, they will start documenting you. It's only a matter of time then. Even if you're able to squeak through training the whole department knows who and what you are by the time you show up for your first shift. Then, let the games begin. They will treat you like a rented mule.

If you get washed out, it's almost impossible to get another job in the fire service.

How about adopting the program of being ready to go before you show up? We're not talking about just a diet here. Couch potatoes need not apply.

"More suicides have been committed by a knife and a fork than any other weapon"

Absolutely nothing counts 'til you have the badge. Nothing!

"Captain Bob"

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Fire "Captain Bob" Smith has coached countless entry level and promotional candidates to get their badge. He is a retired 28-year Hayward, Ca. Captain, speaker/author of the audio/video program "Conquer the Job Interview," the book "Fire Up Your Communication Skills" ISBN 09657620-6-8 and a member of the prestigious National Speakers Association. You can book him as a speaker or get a copy of his books and tapes by calling toll free at 888-238-3959.

E-mail: captbob@verio.com Web site: http://www.eatstress.com