FireRanger WFX-FIT testing
To be a FireRanger, you must pass the Canadian Physical Performance Exchange Standard for Type 1 Wildland Fire Fighters (WFX-FIT). You must pass this test every year to maintain your certification.
The test
There are five parts to the WFX-FIT:
- 1 pre-screening component
- 4 performance components
You must pass the pre-screening component before moving on to the performance components.
Pre-screening measures
Pre-screening includes:
- PAR-Q+ (Physical Activity Readiness questionnaire)
- PARmed-X+ (online survey of medical readiness and medical referral)
- resting blood pressure equal to or less than 144/90 mmHg
- Informed Consent and Release of Results documents
- photo identification
You must arrive at the testing site with your completed PAR-Q+, Informed Consent and Release of Results documents.
Your resting blood pressure will be taken on site. If it is higher than 144/90 mmHg, you will need to provide a doctor’s note clearing you to take the test. If you know from a previous test that your blood pressure is high due to anxiety, you can arrive at the testing site with a note from your doctor that clears you for heavy exercise.
Performance measures
The four performance components listed below simulate the tasks and physical demands of firefighting. It is a timed circuit, conducted continuously, over a 40 metre (131.2 feet) course. You will be required to:
- carry a medium pump on your back
- hand carry a medium pump in your hands
- perform a hose pack lift and carry it on your back
- perform a charged hose advance
To qualify as an Ontario FireRanger you will need to complete the circuit in 17 minutes and 15 seconds.
To qualify nationally you must meet the national exchange standard of 14 minutes and 30 seconds. If you qualify nationally you can fight forest fires anywhere in Canada.
Preparing for the WFX-FIT test
The WFX-FIT is physically demanding. You are encouraged to start preparing for the test several weeks in advance.
Check the fitness training guidelines
Watch a demonstration of each performance measure you will need to complete during the WFX-FIT test.
Taking the test
To find out where you can take the test, contact the WFX-FIT testing agencies approved by the ministry. Testing begins in early February and runs through March, depending on your location choice.
FireRanger WFX-FIT test dates and locations
Where and when you can take the fitness test used to become a FireRanger in Ontario.
Approved training agencies
Canadian Wildland Firefighter Fitness Testing (CWFFT)
14 Morgan Lane
Delhi, Ontario
N4B 2W4
Contact: Robert Lacey
Email: wildlandwfx@gmail.com
Web: CWFFT.ca (Canadian Wildland Firefighter Fitness Testing)
FIRE 1
Contact: Lori Anne Stanger
North Bay
Telephone:
Email: Fire1Training@gmail.com
Web: FIRE 1
Koller Kinesiology
Contact: Matt Koller, R Kin
Oro-Medonte, Ontario
Telephone:
Email: mpkoller@hotmail.com
Web: Koller Kinesiology
KinFit
Wawa, Ontario, P0S 1K0
Contact: Kayley East
Telephone:
Email: kayley@kettleswawa.com
Web: KinesioFit
Dexterra
627 Squier Street
Thunder Bay Ontario, P7B 4A7
Telephone:
Email: fire@dexterra.com
Web: Dexterra
All participants must register in advance. A valid e-mail address is required for registration.
Once your time slot has been confirmed, an e-mail will be sent to you confirming time, location, mandatory forms, and any other pertinent instructions. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment.