Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services is proud to announce a new partnership with Red Deer Polytechnic to offer third-party testing of the Firefighter Applicant Physical Test.
According to the City of Lethbridge, the FAPT is a key requirement for joining LFES. This initiative reduces barriers for prospective applicants by offering more accessible testing options, enhancing the department’s recruitment process.
Previously, candidates seeking to join LFES were required to travel to Edmonton to complete the FAPT at the University of Alberta. With the addition of testing in Red Deer, applicants have two locations to choose from.
“This partnership makes our hiring process more accessible and convenient for candidates,” says Cody Gundlock, deputy chief of Safety, Health and Wellness with LFES. “By reducing the travel burden and increasing testing options, we’re breaking down barriers for prospective candidates and opening the door for more qualified individuals to join our team.”
The test includes seven stations, each with specified time constraints. These stations include a cardiovascular fitness test, equipment carrying, hose drag, sled pull, forceable entry, victim rescue and a ladder climb. Applicants must wear a 45-pound weighted vest while completing the stations, excluding the cardiovascular test.
“These stations are challenging and mirror real-world situations,” adds Mark Matheson, fire training officer with LFES. “Our goal is to ensure our candidates can perform in order to serve the community at the highest level.”
Looking ahead, LFES is working closely with the University of Lethbridge to establish a third testing option locally, further expanding accessibility for prospective firefighter-paramedics in the region.
In 2025, LFES plans to hire at least 14 new members, as part of recruitment efforts. Prospective candidates are encouraged to review application requirements in anticipation of the next job posting expected in early spring.
For more information about LFES recruitment visit Lethbridge.ca/fire
For more details about the test visit rdpolytech.ca/firetesting.
