The physical performance assessment utilized by the Las Cruces Fire Department is a pass or fail event. Although the evaluation utilizes activities that may be performed on the fire ground, the tasks are not specifically skill oriented. No special knowledge is required to be able to successfully complete all tasks in the allotted time. The physical performance assessment is judged on basic skills and abilities. The theory and purpose behind this assessment is to assess individual to determine whether or not they possess the minimum acceptable level of strength, agility, and stamina needed in the fire service.

Before any candidate is allowed to participate in the physical performance assessment, he/she is encouraged to consult with their physician.

The physical performance assessment is comprised of eight (8) events which must be completed in a maximum of ten (10) minutes to pass.

Hose Hoist: The candidate will ascend a one and one half story staircase and proceed to hoist a fifty foot section of three inch hose to the top rail of the landing and back down a total of four times. The hose weighs approximately 45 lbs. and will be attached to a line greater than or equal to 3/4 inch. 

Attic Crawl: The candidate will enter the simulated attic head first through the opening and proceed to the far side by crawling on hands and knees on the tops of the rafters. At the far end of the attic the candidate must strike the far wall and then proceed back to the entrance point and exit feet first.

Rescue Drag: The candidate must move a simulated victim, weighing approximately 155 pounds, a total distance of 100 feet by dragging a dummy 50 feet, turning around, and proceeding another 50 feet back to the starting point. Any safe method of dragging will be allowed, but the dummy may not be carried. Ladder Extension: The candidate must raise the fly section of a 35 foot extension ladder to full extension and then lower the fly section to the bedded position. Any safe method may be used as long as control is maintained and the rope does not slip or slide through the hands.

Hydrant Operation: The candidate must complete 8 full rotation of the hydrant wrench attached to the top of the hydrant while staying within the marked boundaries. The hydrant will require approximately 51 foot pounds of turning force to complete a rotation.

The "Jaws of life" Carry: The candidate will remove the extrication tool weighing approximately 70 lbs. from a platform 22 inches high and carry it for a total distance of one hundred feet. The tool may be carried in any, safe, controlled manner below shoulder level, and extreme care should be taken to not lose control of, or drop the tool.

Simulated Roof Ventilation: The candidate must strike the plate on the simulated roof with an 8 pound sledge hammer a total of thirty times with enough force to register on the counter. Swings will be made from shoulder height or below, and "round house" swings will not be allowed.

High Rise Carry: The candidate will carry a hose pack weighing approximately fifty pounds to the top landing of a one and one half story staircase and back down a total of two times.

These eight events must be accomplished within the allotted 10 minute time period to pass the test. After completion the candidate must successfully complete an acrophobia test (fear of heights). To complete this test you must climb to the top of a 102 foot aerial ladder while tied to a safety belt. This event is not timed and will complete the physical performance assessment.