B-PAD test
 

As a few of you know, my husband took the written test required for becoming a firefighter a little over a week ago. He got the results today and he passed (whoohoo!); he had to be in the top 148 out of 622 people.

He now has to take the B-PAD test, and I'm wondering if anyone has taken it and might have some advice to give, since there really isn't any way to study for it. Thanks!

What the crap is a B-PAD test?

I have a few friends who have done the whole firefighting thing, and as far as I know, it's just common sense and remembering how bad you wanna be a firefighter. You know, overcoming the natural urge to run AWAY from the burning building!

Best of luck!

Basically, it's a behavioral test. The testee sits in a room with a TV and watches a series of scenarios that a firefighter might encounter. At the end of the scenario, the testee has to appropriately respond to the scenario within 45 seconds. The responses are filmed and then graded. As hubby and I understand it, it's becoming a popular way to test police and firefighter candidates for response to stressful situations they might encounter on the job.

You can't teach common sense and unfortunately some people get dished the dregs.

My girlfriends hubby is a firee in Australia and they have to do the same things. I can't remember any of the scenarios he was given, but just judging by his personality he has some very strong points. First and most obvious is he is very, very rational. It takes a lot for him to get flustered. If anything, under pressure he seems totally in control. Remember, it's being taped. Maybe it's good to focus on not the actual scenarios - since you can't study for it, but the way you emotionally handle the situations. Maybe give it a dry run. Get your friends to think of some interesting predicaments and get you husband to do as per the interview whilst being recorded. Watch it and analysis how he comes across, how he rationalises the situation in the time given and watch from another's perspective.

That's a great idea, savvy! Thanks!