Oklahoma City Fire Department Looking For Potential Firefighter

Applications open for potential firefighters to join the Oklahoma City Fire Department Monday.

So far, there’s no word on how many positions the department is looking to fill. Usually, the department takes the applications and sends them through the lengthy process.

“It’s pretty much a process to challenge you and push you to the best of your ability,” said Sergeant Tommy Brown, one of the recruiters with OKCFD.

The department said applicants go through an oral review board, physical test, and a written exam. Recruiters said it’s best if applicants study up before taking it.

“You’ll be tested on fire tools, how to read maps, you’ll be tested on math, [and] reading comprehension,” said Sgt. Brown. “If you need that information we can provide that to you.”

The department said there are also more online resources and programs to help applications prepare for the exam.

Applicants can also expect multiple interviews, as well as a background and polygraph test.

“Once you get to the academy, it’s a grueling four months academy, a lot of learning takes place,” said the sergeant. “It’s pretty much a process that’s going to challenge you and push you to the best of your ability.”

The fire department said the job isn’t just about fighting fires, because crews get called out to all sorts of things that can take an emotional toll.

“You can witness anything from some pretty horrible car crashes to pregnancy issues, birthing issues, drug-related issues. So there’s a wide variety of calls that we go on,” said Sgt. Brown.

Recruiters said they’re also looking for potential firefighters that can think on their feet.

“Someone who can solve problems without having to seek out the superior officers. We’re looking for people who are able to think outside the box. We’re faced with a lot of different situations.”

You can find the full list of requirements and instructions on how to apply here.