Video: Tupelo Fire Department Showcases Physical Requirements For Potential Candidates

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) –  The Tupelo Fire Department is looking for a few good men and women. They are building a pool of candidates for future firefighting positions. As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports, those who hope to be considered for employment must get through several phases, including a physical fitness portion.

Before a firefighter is able to train and work in turnout gear, they must be pre-screened. Tupelo wants to expand its pool of firefighter candidates. There is a work keys test, an interview and physical training.

Tupelo Fire Department Training Officer, Romeco Traylor, took me through the same exercises potential recruits must complete.

“We are looking for someone that’s in great shape, can think outside the box and you have to be able to think quick on your feet because this job of being a firefighter is a dynamic job,” Traylor said.

There are minimum physical requirements, starting with pull ups. You must do at least three, with no kipping or swinging. It is the toughest part .

From there, candidates must do 25 pushups.

Next on the list, at least 35 sit ups.

Finally, candidates have to run a mile and a half in 13 minutes or less.

Firefighters who have gone through the training, say it’s worth it. They also have some advice for those wanting to make the cut.

“It’s a physical service, you got to put in the effort, you can’t just sit on the couch, you got to put in the work and be willing to learn, give it your all,” said Tupelo Firefighter Marcus Merryman.

“Look into what’s going to be on the physical test and train and work toward, making sure you can do those before you come out,” suggested Tupelo Firefighter Cory Lindsey.

Potential candidates must be a high school graduate, have a valid drivers license and must complete the work keys test by March 25th.

For those who make the first cut, there will be a field training day at the Tupelo Training Center on April 18th.

For more information call 662 841 6480 or go to www.tupelofire.net