Wildland Firefighters Fitness Testing

The Department of Natural Resources has taken a major step toward a program that helps promote the safety of the men and women who fight fires in Nova Scotia's forests and wildlands. Thirty wildland firefighters have volunteered for a trial-run of the Department of Natural Resources Standard Firefighter Fitness Test on Tuesday, Oct. 30.

"This testing is necessary for the safety of our firefighters, and for them to fight wildfires to their highest capabilities," said Natural Resources Minister David Morse. "Once complete, Nova Scotia will meet the industry standard of wildland firefighters throughout North America."

Nova Scotia is an active and supportive member of national and international agreements designed to share firefighting staff and equipment during forest fires emergencies. Starting in 2008, fitness testing will be a national requirement for anyone who performs certain crew leader or crew member positions, fighting fires outside of their province or territory. The Department of Natural Resources is taking steps to make sure Nova Scotia's firefighters meet these standards.

"No single province or territory has all the resources required to deal with a widespread series of fires," said Mr. Morse "Now we'll know, no matter where the fire, all firefighters will have the same high level of capabilities."

To learn how to best implement the national standard fitness testing in 2008, the Department of Natural Resources is completing a trial of the fitness test. Thirty volunteers, who have been training for six weeks, will undergo the trial testing.

The standard fitness test being used by the department is the most-used fitness test for firefighters in North America. This test best represents the fitness and work capacity needed to do the crew leader and crew member positions.

"The 30 volunteers have dedicated a tremendous amount of time and effort into the training it takes to complete this test," said Mr. Morse. "We will provide all necessary tools to get the best results possible."

Trial volunteers have received a training package, consultation with a physiotherapist on training, and time from their regular work day to prepare, during the six-week training period.