Journal & Topics Media Group

Des Plaines To Hire 10 Firefighters; Change In Test Could Open Few More Doors


The Des Plaines Fire Department has begun the process of hiring 10 new firefighters/paramedics to bring up-to-date its staffing levels.

To do that, the department will implement a new physical ability test for candidates that’s deemed fairer than the previous exam, addresses potential legal challenges, and possibly open the door for more women to join the force. The new test, Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), is used by nearly every suburban fire department, according to Des Plaines Fire Chief Dan Anderson. It’s a nationally accepted exam of a candidate’s physical ability to perform job tasks related to firefighting. Anderson added that it’s a certified test unlike the one previously used by the city.

The physical ability test, for example, takes into account pulling a hose by hand that’s filled with water and climbing a ladder with a hose. In some instances, females may not be able to perform the same physical exercises men do, but are otherwise qualified. The CPAT test is designed to make the exam fairer for every applicant no matter their gender and to remove any charges of discrimination. If it’s determined that the new test is not working satisfactorily it can always return to the former test as long as it becomes certified.

“It’s a good thing. A very good test,” remarked Anderson. “It does a good job at evaluating physical abilities. It will also speed up our process. It’s better than what we’ve been doing. It’s a  fair test and if it happens to open the door for women and minorities, why not? It’s not about how much you can lift.”

The deadline to become a Des Plaines firefighter/paramedic is March 17. Other exams such as written and psychological tests will be given to candidates. Those accepted by the Des Plaines Police & Fire Board of Commissioners are placed on an eligibility list with their test results. When the department wants to hire someone they choose from that list, which is good for two years.

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One response to “Des Plaines To Hire 10 Firefighters; Change In Test Could Open Few More Doors”

  1. Done says:

    yes it is about how much you can lift, how we have gone backwards with knowledge is impressive. The weight lifting rule is there for a reason, how are so many stupid people getting into power?? I can hardly wait for the first person to die ,because they sent a woman who could not lift the man to carry him to safety, or she couldnt lift the beam that fell on her partner, or turn a large 350 lb man onto his side so he can breathe, because some brain surgeon said “It doesn’t matter how much you can lift”. Dont even want to get into the distraction and drama that women have been causing since they were allowed into the service in the first place.

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