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Columbus Division of Fire Recruitment Office

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Columbus Division of Fire Recruitment Office

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The CFD Recruitment Office seeks to find and engage future firefighters who will help make Columbus,

The Columbus Division of Fire (CFD) Recruitment Office seeks to find and engage future firefighters who will help make Columbus, OH the best place to live, work, and raise a family. The CFD is one of the best fire service divisions in the country, responsible for assuring the efficient and effective deployment of firefighting and emergency resources to the City of Columbus. The mission is simple, to serve the City of Columbus preventing emergencies
through education and inspection. The goal is to minimize injury, death and
property destruction due to fire, natural disaster and other emergencies while
providing timely and effective emergency medical services. Currently, the Division
of Fire responds to over 150,000 calls a year within 399 square miles. The services provided to the community includes resources such as fire inspections, investigations, hazardous materials and technical rescue response. The Division’s community involvement extends beyond emergent services to included partnerships that distribute coats and toys for kids, youth development and in-house CPR training.

10/01/2026

CFD Recruitment - October Update

Monthly Breakdown
Each month the Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment will break down a portion of the exam. This month we will focus on:
• Reading Comprehension
• Firefighter Mile –
- Forcible Entry/Tire Strike
- Paced Walk

Phase I- Multiple Choice

Reading Comprehension

The objective is to read and understand, recall and find the answers that apply to each passage.

The 5 Question Types

• Inference - read between the lines
• Basic Comprehension - what does the passage literally say?
• Vocabulary in Context - replace each answer in the question and see if it fits
• Apply the Definition - use the words definition in a new situation
• Inference about People - focus on behavior, intent and actions

Tips
• Ask: “What is the IDEA?”
• Don’t overthink—stick to what’s supported
• Go back to the text (don’t trust memory)
• Verify each answer

Follow these steps:

1. Read like a movie
• Visualize it happening
• Who? What? Why?

2. Remember what you can
• Go back and re-read
• Focus on the main idea, key details and people and their actions

3. Attack the questions
• Cross out obvious wrong answers
• Narrow it down to 2 answers, then pick the best fit

4. Use pattern recognition
The wrong answer may sound good but is too extreme in text. These terms typically indicate that the answer is wrong.
• Always
• Never
• Guarantees

5. When you read a passage, ask yourself:
• Who are the people?
• What is the problem?
• What matters most here?

6. When stuck, ask?
• Is this in the passage?
• Is this going beyond what’s said?
• Which answer is MOST supported?

Phase III- Firefighter Mile

Event 7: Forcible Entry Tire Strike

Purpose
Simulates forcing a locked door to gain access to the structure

Description
Strike the tire using a 10lb sledgehammer eight feet across a table

Scoring
• ≤ 35 sec. = 1 Point
• 36 – 50 sec. = Pass
• 51 + sec. = OUT

Common Mistakes
• Losing control of the sledgehammer
• Tire falls off the table
• Striking the table instead of the tire

Winning Strategy
• Keep both hands on the tool
• Eye on the tire
• Hit the center of the tire

Event 8: Paced Walk
Purpose
● Simulates the aerobic demands placed on Firefighters
● Allows time for cool down

Description
• Walking at a set pace for a 381-yard course

Scoring
● 2 min. 46 sec = 1 Point
● 2 min 47sec – 3 min 5 sec = Pass
● 3 min 6 sec = OUT

Common Mistakes
● Running and jogging are not allowed
● Drifting off course
● Ignoring pacing feedback
● Panic
● Overthink
● Or go too hard too early

Winning Strategy
● Lock into the proctor’s pace early
● Long, controlled strides
● Stay relaxed, this is recovery plus control

The ones who pass:
● Stay calm
● Stay consistent
● Stay disciplined

Sign up with your email for a more detailed test prep.

CFD Interest Sign Up - https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/9ca77eb41aef44b2961a27c14bcf97fe?__;!!Ibw6q7MDdYV6!SEjH8jHy_oVgW2GbHLMtxXr29lD9_TEomBCNTs4BW7etyNhV7r4hadBsB0tc-AjuQ0VY9df9Fvcl9rx3n9E$

Study Table Sign up link - https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01a043dc1d99762989e2d4c6afbeb3cb

The Columbus Division of Fire Office of Recruitment
Phone: 614-645-6387 Email: [email protected]

09/16/2026

CFD Recruitment - September Update

Monthly Breakdown
Each month the Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment will break down a portion of the exam. This month we will focus on:
• Math
• Firefighter Mile
- Paced Walk
- Blind Hose Crawl

Phase I- Multiple Choice
Math
Purpose
The purpose of this subtest is to test your ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers, fractions, and decimals and apply formulas/math principles to practical situations.

1. Fractions
• Find common denominator
• Add tops (numerators)
• Simplify
Example: 2/3 + 3/4 + 5/8
Common denominator = 24
Convert → 16/24 + 18/24 + 15/24 = 49/24 = 2 1/24

2. Percentages
• Convert % → decimal

Example: 20% of 650 = .20 × 650 = 130

Quick trick:
10% = move decimal
20% = double it
50% = half

3. Number Pattern
• Find the number pattern
• Check the difference
• Check the multiplication pattern
Example:
2 → 4 → 12 → 48 → ?
Look at the pattern: ×2, ×3, ×4 → next is ×5
48 × 5 = 240

4. Area / Geometry
Rectangle:
• Area = length × width
• Perimeter = 2L + 2W

Example:
Area = 4,840 sq yards
Length = 121 yards
Width: 4840 ÷ 121 = 40

5. Conversions (MEMORIZE THESE)
Length
• 12 in = 1 ft
• 3 ft = 1 yd
• 1760 yd = 1 mile

Weight
• 16 oz = 1 lb.
Volume
• 2 cups = 1 pint
• 2 pints = 1 quart
• 4 quarts = 1 gallon
Time
• 60 sec = 1 min
• 60 min = 1 hour

Phase III- Firefighter Mile
Event 5: Paced Walk
Purpose
• Simulates the aerobic demands placed on Firefighters
• Allows time for cool down
Description
• Walking at a set pace for a 381-yard course
Scoring
• Under 2 min 46 sec = 1 point
• 2 min 47 sec – 3 min 5 sec = 0 points
• Over 3 min 6 sec = DONE
Strategy
• Lock into rhythm immediately
• Listen to your proctor timing cues

Event 6: Blind Crawl
Scoring
• Under 2 min 30 sec = 1 point
• 2 min 31 sec – 3 min = 0 points
• Over 3 min 1 sec = DONE
Strategy
• Stay on your hose
• Two hand technique
• Always keep your tool close, or on you
• Move smoothly, with purpose and under control

Sign up with your email for a more detailed test prep. CFD Interest Sign Up
Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment
Phone: 614-645-6387 Email: [email protected]

08/03/2026

CFD Recruitment – August Update

Monthly Breakdown

This month we will focus on:
• Map Reading and Following Directions
• Firefighter Mile
- Charged Hose Advance
- Equipment Haul
Phase I- Multiple Choice
Map Reading and Following Directions
Purpose
This subtest of the exam is designed to test your ability to follow directions and read maps. For this subtest, you will answer questions regarding a map.

1. North is given
• Ask yourself, “From point A… where is point B?”
Don’t overthink it:
• Up + Right = NE
• Down + Right = SE
• Down + Left = SW
• Up + Left = NW

2. Shortest Route = Straightest Logic
• If the destination is below, you go SOUTH
• If the destination is above, you go NORTH
Example: Simpson St (north) → W. Mulder (south)
• Turn SOUTH every time

Common Mistakes
• Flipping east/west under pressure
• Forgetting where you started
• Not answering from the correct reference point
• Trying to “picture the whole map” instead of just A → B

Quick Practice Drill
Look at ANY map (even your phone) and ask:
• “Where is Target from me?”
• “What direction is that street?”
• “If I turn here, which way am I going?”
Do that for a week… you’ll be faster than 80% of people.

Phase III- Firefighter Mile
Event 3: Charged Hose Advance
Goal:
• Move FAST while dragging resistance
Times:
• ≤ 30 sec = 1 point
• 31–35 sec = pass
• 36+ = done
Keys to DOMINATE this:
• Move fast and stay in control
• Keep the hose tight to your shoulder
• Use momentum around barrels
• Stay inside the boundaries
Challenges:
• Trying to drag it like a sled
• Slowing down at the turn
• Looking down instead of looking forward

Event 4: Equipment Haul
Goal:
• Pull sled 40 ft using rope (hand-over-hand ONLY)
Times:
• ≤ 28 sec = 1 point
• 29–35 sec = pass
• 36+ = done
Keys to WIN:
• Hand-over-hand = NON-NEGOTIABLE
• Stay low, use legs + core, not just arms
• Fast rhythm: pull → re-grip → pull
What Gets People:
• Using arms only (burns out fast)
• Breaking rhythm
• Not pulling sled flush at the end

Sign up with your email for a more detailed test prep. CFD Interest Sign Up
Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment
Phone: 614-645-6387 Email: [email protected]

07/13/2026

CFD Recruitment - July Update
Monthly Breakdown

Each month the Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment will break down a portion of the exam. This month we will focus on:
• Situation Judgement
• Firefighter Mile
- High Rise Carry
- Paced Walk

Phase I- Multiple Choice
Situational Judgement Test
Purpose
The Situational Judgment portion of this subtest is a video-based assessment. This portion of the examination will assess the judgment required for problem solving in work-related situations.
Description
• You’ll watch video scenarios (non-fire related)
• An employee responds to a situation
• You must rate EACH response immediately
• You get 10–15 seconds per answer
• Videos play ONLY ONCE — no replay

Your Rating Scale
• A = Highly Effective - Professional, proactive, solves the problem, extra effort
• B = Satisfactory - gets the job done, no extra effort
• C = Substandard – below standard, incomplete, less than adequate
• D= Unacceptable – clearly inferior, will end in a negative outcome

How to DOMINATE This Section

1. Think Like a Public Servant
• Be Respectful
• Be calm under pressure
• Take responsibility
If it sounds like something a strong leader would say… it’s probably an A or B

2. Avoid
• Arguing or escalating conflict
• Ignoring the issue
• Being passive or doing nothing
• Blaming others

3. Look For These Traits
• Communication
• Accountability
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving

4. Trust Your Gut (Quickly)
• You don’t have time to overthink
• First instinct is usually right
• Don’t wait for the “perfect answer”

Phase III- Firefighter Mile

Event 1: High Rise Carry
Purpose
• Simulates climbing multiple stairs while carrying tools and other equipment
Description
• 80 lbs. total weight
• 6-step stairs by 18 reps up & down
• Must stay on pace with audio
Scoring
• ≤ 2:30 = 1 Point
• 2:31–2:53 = Pass (0 pts)
• 2:54 or more = OUT
Disqualifications
• Skipping steps
• Stopping to rest
• Losing balance
• Falling off pace too far
• Too many warnings your test ends
Winning Strategy
• Smooth, steady rhythm
• Light grip on handrail for balance
• Breathe under control

Event 2: Paced Walk
Purpose
• Simulates the aerobic demands placed on Firefighters
• Allows time for cool down
Description
• Walking at a set pace for a 381-yard course
Scoring
• ≤ 3:40 = 1 Point
• 3:41–4:00 = Pass
• 4:01 or more = OUT

Common Mistakes
• Running and jogging are not allowed
• Drifting off course
• Ignoring pacing feedback
• Panic
• Overthink
• Or go too hard too early

Winning Strategy
• Lock into the proctor’s pace early
• Long, controlled strides
• Stay relaxed, this is recovery plus control

The ones who pass:
• Stay calm
• Stay consistent
• Stay disciplined

Sign up with your email for a more detailed test prep. CFD Interest Sign Up
Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment
Phone: 614-645-6387 Email: [email protected]

06/01/2026

CFD Recruitment - June Update

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!
We are officially 6 months out from open enrollment (November 2026). Over the next several months, the Columbus Division of Fire Office of Recruitment will post a monthly breakdown to help you prepare for each phase of the exam process.
Schedule
• June – FOAM
• July – Situational Judgment / Stair Climb & Paced Walk
• August – Map Reading / Hose Advancement & Equipment Haul
• September – Mathematics / Paced Walk & Blind Crawl
• October – Reading Comprehension / Forcible Entry & Paced Walk
• November – Mechanical Aptitude / Victim Rescue & CPR

Scoring Overview
Only candidates who pass all three phases will be placed on the eligible list.
• Phase I (Multiple Choice): Pass/Fail
• Phase II (FOAM): Band/Fail (100% of final score)
• Phase III (Firefighter Mile): Pass/Fail

The Job of a Columbus Firefighter
This career goes far beyond fire suppression.
Firefighters must:
• Perform physically demanding tasks (stairs, hose work, victim rescue)
• Respond quickly in high-pressure situations
• Provide emergency medical care (many are paramedics)
• Maintain equipment, inspect buildings, and serve the community

Training
• 33–35 week paid academy
• Ongoing training throughout your career
• Certifications required:
o Firefighter II
o EMT-Basic

Schedule
• 24 hours on / 48 hours off
• Kelly Day every 3rd week
• Averages a 48-hour work week

Monthly Breakdown
Each month the Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment will break down a portion of the exam. This month we will focus on:
• FOAM Phase II
Phase II - FOAM
The Firefighter Oral Assessment Mechanism (FOAM) is a video-based test.
Purpose
The Firefighter Oral Assessment Mechanism (FOAM) is a video-based examination that tests your problem sensing and resolution skills and interpersonal relations skills. You will watch six scenarios, and at the conclusion of each scenario, you will respond verbally as if you were a firefighter or medic in that situation. The scenarios are set in fire-related environments, meaning they occur in locations involving firefighters and fire situations. However, no medical, fire suppression or other knowledge that is learned in the fire training academy will be assessed.

What to Expect
• 6 video scenarios
• 40 seconds to respond
• You speak as if you are in the situation
• Responses are recorded and scored later

Key Tip:
Don’t say “I would…”
Speak directly like you’re already in action

FOAM Scoring
1. Problem Sensing & Resolution
• Identify the issue
• Think critically
• Provide a clear solution
2. Interpersonal Relations
• Communication skills
• Tone, body language, facial expression
• Respect and professionalism

Keys to a Strong Score (Remember the 3 P’s)
• Problem – Identify it
• People – Address them properly
• Plan – Provide a clear solution

Preparation Tips
• Practice out loud (mirror or video)
• Use real-life or TV scenarios
• Focus on clear communication and resolution
• Get comfortable speaking for 40 seconds

Practice Video
Check out a sample scenario and response here:

Columbus Civil Service Video: FOAM Practice Scenario -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDbv2f44Lic&t=82s

Columbus Civil Service Video: FOAM Response to Practice Scenario - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyMpQLnMaTg

Sign up with your email for a more detailed test prep. CFD Interest Sign Up
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/9ca77eb41aef44b2961a27c14bcf97fe?

Columbus Fire Office of Recruitment
Phone: 614-645-6387 Email: [email protected]

11/28/2025

CFD Recruitment Update — One Year Out!

🔥 The Countdown Is On! 🔥
In November 2026, the Columbus Division of Fire will open applications for the next generation of firefighters — and that means this month marks one year out.

Now’s the perfect time to start preparing:
✅ Learn what it takes to become a Columbus Firefighter
✅ Understand the testing process and physical requirements
✅ Get guidance on how to be ready when applications open

Q&A Responses -
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L1bqvewvMl-daWlVhD4B9B23KAcZ-KlZDKHTl3Rg-KA/edit?usp=sharing

Our Recruitment Office is here to help you every step of the way!
📞 Call us at 614-645-6387
🕗 Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4 PM
🌐 columbus911policefire.us/fire-division

Serve your city. Invest in your future. Join Columbus Fire.

Address

Columbus, OH
43207

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 4pm
Tuesday	9am - 4pm
Wednesday	9am - 4pm
Thursday	9am - 4pm
Friday	9am - 4pm

Telephone

+16146456387

Website

https://www.columbus.gov/public-safety/fire/

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