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Firefighting (FF)

Public Safety

Skilled and Technical Sciences Contests Contest Information

State Qualifying Exam: Yes National Contest: Yes Participation: Individual

Contest Description This competition evaluates students’ preparation for firefighting careers through hands-on skill demonstrations and both written and oral presentations. Areas tested include: safety; breathing apparatus; fire streams; ladders, ropes, knots and hoses; fire control; ventilation; emergency medical care and rescue; and protecting fire cause evidence. Tasks To Be Evaluated Basic Skills Firefighting Competition including ropes and knots, hoisting, hose loads, hose rolls, hydrant operations, donning and doffing, and a modified combat challenge. Supplies Provided by Technical Committee Chairs and tables and space for competition. Supplies Provided by Contestant Everything needed for the testing of firefighter skills. Additional Information Practice these skills with your instructors before coming. Instructors may contact the current contest supervisor for more information.

Total Points for page _________________

SkillsUSA Illinois – Firefighting Competition Name:___________________________ Number:______________

Final Score:____________( 100 Pts Max.) Tiebreaker Time:_____________ ( 90 Pts Max. – ‘Off Air’) ** Note any time a student goes over the specified max time for an event they shall be allowed a reasonable amount to of time to finish the event with a 50% reduction in total points allowed unless otherwise specified in the score sheet for the event. Tool Identification: Time 60 sec or less (Correctly Identified Items Credited 1 Pt Each)

(Maximum 10 Pts Possible) Section Total

Knots

Knot Dressing

(1Pt Possible)

Knot Correctness (2Pts Possible)

Time 60 sec for

Bight 90 for Bend sec or

less (2Pts Possible)

Points Earned

Figure 8 on a Bight (w/ Overhand Safety)

Figure 8 Bend (w/ Overhand Safeties)

(Maximum 10 Pts Possible) Section Total

Hoisting

Used Working End

of Rope (1Pt possible)

Clove Hitch around

Handle/Blade Wrapped

(2Pts Possible)

2 – ½ Hitchs

(1Pt Possible)

Time 90 sec or


Points Earned

Pick Head Axe

Hoisting 4’ to 5’ Overlap

(1Pt Possible)

Clove Hitch around Nozzle

(1Pt Possible)

½ Hitch 12” from

Bight (1Pt Possible)

Time 120 sec or


Points Earned

Dry Hose Line


Donut Roll: Female Coupling 90° -180° Past Male [Male Coupling Overlapping = 0 Pts] (2Pts Possible)

Hose is rolled straight (Not Like A Cinnamon Roll – Loosely rolled or non-uniformed rolls) (1Pt Possible)

Time 120 sec or less (2Pts Possible)

Total Time (Maximum 5 Pts Possible) Subtotal

Maximum 5 Points Possible Hose Roll Total Points Deficiencies shall receive deductions: Minus 1 for every additional 90 degrees beyond the acceptable range.


Preconnected Flat Load: Attach Couplings to Discharge / Nozzle

(1Pt Possible)

Staggers folds in hose, staggering folds approx. 2-4 inches on each fold. No Kinks or Twists in Hose.

(1Pt Possible)

Places 8” Loop approx. 1/3 of Total Length (Both Sides) (1Pt Possible)

Places 14” Loop approx. 2/3 of Total Length (Both Sides) (1Pt Possible)

Time 5 min or less (1Pt Possible)


Minuteman Load: Attach Female Coupling to Discharge, lays remaining hose out the front of the bed (or flat load till coming to the next coupling and laying the end out the front of the bed) to be loaded later. (1Pt Possible)

Place Nozzle & Male Coupling on previously placed Hose

(1Pt Possible)

Staggers folds in hose, staggering folds approx. 2-4 inches on each fold. No Kinks or Twists in Hose.

(1Pt Possible)

Connect Female Coupling of Hose with Nozzle to Male Coupling of Initial Hose Section – Continue to place remainder of Hose in Bed.

(1Pt Possible)




Making the Hydrant Connection: Bring all necessary Items to Connect to Hydrant

(2Pts Possible)

Wrap Soft Suction around Hydrant (1Pt Possible)

Flush Hydrant – Verbalize “flushing hydrant” rotate 5 times counter clockwise then 5 times clockwise to simulate the procedure. (2Pts Possible)

Connect Soft Suction / 2 ½ Gate Valve to Hydrant (ensuring no tight bends that may kink ) (1Pt Possible)

Confirm w/ Engineer – Ready to Receive Water (1Pt Possible)

Fully Open Hydrant ” rotate 12 times counter clockwise (1Pt Possible)


Total Time Maximum 10 Points Possible Section Total


Donning of PPE along with SCBA

Correctly Check SCBA: (ie.harness assembly/hoses/pressure/low-air alarm/remote gauge/ bypass) Given a reasonable amount of time, Correctly setup gear and inspect SCBA.

(5 Pts Possible)

Time

(Maximum 5 Pts Possible) Subtotal Don Personal Protective Equipment Don Boots and Bunker Pants: Steps into boots, pull up by pants not suspenders, places suspenders over shoulder, all fasteners secured, contestant does not slip or fall over while donning gear.

(1 Pt Possible)

Don Bunker Coat: Puts on nomex hood, puts coat on in a fluid motion, secures inner closure, secures outer closure, turns up collar and secures neck flap.

(1 Pt Possible)

Don SCBA (Coat or Over the Head Method): Checks air level and shouts out air pressure, turns on bottle, dons SCBA per method chosen, secures all straps and buckles, activates pass device.

(5 Pts Possible)

Don Face Piece: Pulls mask over head, secures straps (chin, temple, top), checks for seal, checks exhaust valve operation, pulls up nomex hood to fit around face piece lens.

(1 Pt Possible)

Don Helmet and Gloves: Adjusts helmet prior to donning, puts on helmet making sure earflaps are on the outside, secures chin strap and adjusts, puts gloves on proper hands, performs in a fluid motion.

(1 Pt Possible)

Regulator to Mask Connection: Hooks up without a production, takes breath to activating air or turns on regulator, checks bypass valve for operation. Claps hands to indicate “done”. (1 Pt Possible)

(within 120 seconds) Time (10 pts. Possible) Subtotal

Deficiencies shall receive safety deductions of ½ Pt per Infraction for: Fasteners/Buckles/Straps/Zippers/Velcro/Snaps Not Secured, Slips or Falls Over while Donning, Collar Inside Coat, Does not turn on air before Breathing, Does not Check Seal of Mask, Earflaps not over Coat Collar, Unsecured Chin Strap, Gloves on Wrong Hands, Any Exposed Skin, Helmet Shield remaining up, 1 point deduction for every 5 seconds over

Maximum 15 Points Possible PPE Section Points Earned


Modified Firefighter Candidate Challenge

Each contestant will be judged on his or her ability to complete the modified combat challenge in a safe and timely manner. Each contestant will complete each area to the best of their ability. At no time shall a candidate run on the course. Running is defined as both feet leaving the ground at the same time; a brisk walk, however, is encouraged. Must be completed in under 7:00 minutes for a maximum of 30 Pts “On Air” Must be completed in under 7:00 minutes for a maximum of 20 Pts “Off Air” Flake Carry (Up): Place the given hose load on either shoulder and carries it to the top of the stairs without dropping. Contestant must touch every step going up (No Running Accepted).

(2.5 Pts Possible-Off Air //5 Pts Possible-On Air)

Hose Hoist: Hoist a roll of 1 ¾ off the ground and over the top rail. (3 Pts Possible-Off Air // 5 Pts Possible-On Air)

Flake Carry (Down): Place the given hose load on either shoulder and carries it to the base of the stairs without dropping. Contestant must touch every step going down (No Running Accepted).

(2.5 Pts Possible-Off Air ,5 Pts Possible-On Air)

Keiser Sled: Contestant Must pick up the hammer, raise the hammer for each strike and move the sled via hammer strike approx. 2 feet (3 Pts Possible-Off Air // 5 Pts Possible-On Air

Hose Drag: Proceed to the dry 2 ½ in. hose with Play Pipe and drag it 100 feet (No Running Accepted).

(3 Pts Possible-Off Air // 5 Pts Possible-On Air)

Victim Drag: Proceed to the Victim Simulator and drag it 50 feet (No Running Accepted).

(3 Pts Possible-Off Air // 5 Pts Possible-On Air)

Total Time Section Total

Deficiencies shall receive safety deductions of 1 Pt per Infraction for: Running on the course, Stairs missed, Unsafe Roof Operation, Dropping / Descending of the Donut Roll, Falling / Dropping Rescue Randy, Equipment Abuse, PPE Removed before Completed, Profanity, Throwing PPE, Overall Lack of Professionalism, Poor Sportsmanship Points Point Total No Resume 2.5 Deduction Improper Appearance 2.5 Deduction

Section Total Note: In the event of a tie for point total, the tiebreaker will be total amount of time for the Firefighter Challenge. Tiebreaker Time FF Challenge: ________________________

Skill Attestation Sheet

SkillsUSA Illinois Fire Fighting Competition 1

Tools Tool Identification

10 Points Total Task: The candidate shall identify firefighting tools. Standard: Given an array of tools (possibilities include tools, ladders, extinguishers, hoses, nozzles, SCBA, and appliances) and corresponding placards (with the tool names), the candidate shall correctly identify them within 1 minute with 100% accuracy. There shall be 10 tools for this exercise theoretically worth 1 point each. There may however; be more placards than tools. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall secure the placards (with tool names) and place them in front

of the correct items. 4. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it. 5. The observer shall check the placards for accuracy. 6. Should the candidate not complete the identifications within the allotted time, the

observer shall call “Stop” (at one minute). Grading Criteria

• Correctly identified tools within the time limit shall be credited 1 point each. Maximum of 10 points possible.

• Unidentified or incorrectly identified tools shall receive no points. Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition.


SkillsUSA Illinois Fire Fighting Competition 2

List of 40 Items from Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition

1. Pump-Type Water Extinguisher – figure 6.2b - page 238 2. Stored-pressure water Extinguisher – figure 6.3/6.4 – page 238 3. CO2 Extinguisher – figure 6.12 – page 242 4. Dry Chemical Extinguisher – figure 6.15 b – page 243 5. Pike Pole – figure 7.35 – page 281 6. Hydraulic Spreader – figure 8.57 – page 335 7. Hydraulic Shears (Cutters) – figure 8.58 – page 335 8. Hydraulic Ram – figure 8.60 – page 336 9. Cribbing – figure 8.101 – page 352 10. Pick-Head Axe – figure 9.4 – page 397 11. Flat-Head Axe – figure 9.4 – page 397 12. Bolt Cutters – figure 9.5 – page 399 13. Rotary Saw – figure 9.14 – page 401 14. Reciprocating Saw – figure 9.15 – page 403 15. Chain Saw – figure 9.16 – page 403 16. Halligan Bar – figure 9.18 - page 403 17. Sledgehammer – figure 9.27 – page 407 18. “The Irons” – figure 9.32 – page 410 19. K-tool – figure 9.90 – page 435 20. A-tool – figure 9.92 – page 435 21. Two Section Extension Ladder – figure 10.5 – page 477 22. Roof Ladder with Hooks – figure 10.5 – page 477 23. Large Diameter Soft Intake Hose – figure 13.3- page 633 24. Hard Intake Hose – figure 13.5 – page 634 25. Gated Wye – figure 13.31 – page 644 26. Siamese – figure 13.33 – page 645 27. Double Male Coupling – figure 13.39 a – page 647 28. Double Female Coupling – figure 13.39 b – page 647 29. Reducer – figure 3.41- page 647 30. Hose Jacket – figure 13.48 - page 649 31. Hydrant Wrench – figure 13.51- page 651 32. Spanner – figure 13.51- page 651 33. Solid-Bore (Solid-Stream) Nozzle – figure 14.12- page 726 34. Fog Stream Nozzle – figure 14.17 -page 729 35. Cellar Nozzle – figure 14.24 -page 731 36. Fusible Link Sprinkler Head – figure 16.39 a - page 846 37. Frangible Bulb Sprinkler Head - figure 16.39 b - page 846 38. Chemical Pellet Sprinkler Head - figure 16.39 c - page 846 39. OS&Y control valve – figure 16.45- page 848 40. Post Indicator valve – figure 16.46- page 848


SkillsUSA Illinois Firefighting Competition 1

Knots Figure-Eight on a Bight

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall tie a figure-eight on a bight. Standard: Given a length of ½” static kernmantle rope, the candidate shall tie a figure-eight on a bight knot (finished with an overhand safety knot toward the standing end of the knot) within 1 minute while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall secure the rope and form a bight on the working end of the

rope. 4. The candidate shall pass it over the standing portion of the rope to form a loop. 5. The candidate shall pass the bight under the standing part and then over the loop

and down through it; this forms the figure-eight knot. 6. The candidate shall dress the knot and finish it with an overhand safety knot

within two finger widths of the standing end of the figure-eight knot. 7. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it. 8. The observer shall check the knot for accuracy. 9. Should the candidate not complete the knot within the allotted time, the observer

shall call “Stop” (at one minute) and no points shall be awarded. Grading Criteria

• Correctly tied knots within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Safety knots tied greater than two finger widths from the figure-eight knot or tied

toward the working end of the rope shall be deducted ½ point per infraction • Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided the candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to complete correctly or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect knot and no points shall be awarded.

• Knots tied correctly but not properly dressed shall receive 1 point deduction • Incorrectly tied figure-eight on a bight knots or time limit exceeded shall receive

no points for this skill. Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, Skill Sheet 7-I-9 pg 293.



Knots Figure-Eight Bend

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall tie a figure-eight bend knot. Standard: Given two lengths of ½” static kernmantle rope, the candidate shall tie a figure-eight bend (finished with an overhand safety knot on each rope) within 90 seconds while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall pick up one rope and tie a figure-eight on one end of the rope. 4. The candidate shall secure a second rope and feed the end of the second rope

through the figure-eight in reverse. It should follow (hence the name) the exact path of the original knot.

5. The candidate shall dress the knot and finish it with an overhand safety knot on each rope (two total).

6. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time and record it.

7. The observer shall check the knot for accuracy – correctly tied knots shall have a safety tied within two finger widths of each side of the knot.

8. Should the candidate not complete the knot within the allotted time, the observer shall call “Stop” (at 90 seconds) and no points shall be awarded.

Grading Criteria

• Correctly tied knots within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided the candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect knot and no points shall be awarded.

• Safety knots tied greater than two finger widths from the figure-eight bend (or missing safety knots) shall be deducted ½ point per infraction.

• Knots tied correctly but not properly dressed shall receive a 1 point deduction

• Incorrectly tied figure-eight bend knots or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill.

Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, page 292

Skill Sheet 7-I-8



Hoists Hoisting an Axe

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall prepare a pick head axe for hoisting. Standard: Given a length of ½” static kernmantle rope and a pick head axe, the candidate shall prepare the axe for hoisting within 1½ minutes while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall secure the rope and tie a clove hitch. 4. The candidate shall slide the clove hitch down the axe handle to the axe head.

a. Note: The excess running end of the rope becomes the tag line. b. Note: The tag line (running end) must run toward the pick portion of the

axe head, the working end must run toward the blade portion of the axe head

5. The candidate shall loop the working end of the rope around the head of the axe and back up the handle.

6. The candidate shall tie a half hitch on the handle (between one and two hand widths above the axe head).

7. The candidate shall tie another half hitch at the butt end of the handle (between one and two hand widths from the butt of the axe handle).

8. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time and record it.

9. The observer shall check for accuracy – see Grading Criteria below. 10. Should the candidate not complete the hoist preparation within the allotted time,

the observer shall call “Stop” (at 1 ½ minutes) and no points shall be awarded. Grading Criteria

• Correctly prepared axe hoists within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hoist and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect placement of the running or working end of the axe head clove hitch, or half hitches not placed within the acceptable limits (between one and two hand widths from the head and butt of axe on the handle) shall receive ½ point deduction for each infraction.

• Incorrect hoist preparation or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill.



• A 50% point reduction shall occur if the candidate fails to wrap the axe blade since the axe could slip and fall on someone and possible injury could occur. This is considered a critical error.

• A candidate who ties the hoist so that the axe head is hoisted on top shall receive 0 points.

Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, page 294 Skill Sheet 7-I-11



Hoists Hoisting Dry Hoseline

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall prepare a dry hoseline for hoisting. Standard: Given a length of ½” static kernmantle rope and a 2 ½ “ hoseline with nozzle, the candidate shall prepare the hoseline for hoisting within 2 minutes while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall fold the end of the hoseline back over the rest of the hose so

that an overlap of 4 to 5 feet is formed. 4. The candidate shall tie a clove hitch, with an overhand safety knot, around the tip

of the nozzle and the hose it is folded against so they are lashed together. 5. The candidate shall place a half hitch on the doubled hose about 12 inches from

the loop end. 6. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it. 7. The observer shall check for accuracy – see Grading Criteria below. 8. Should the candidate not complete the hoist preparation within the allotted time,

the observer shall call “Stop” (at 2 minutes) and no points shall be awarded. Grading Criteria

• Correctly prepared hose hoists within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hoist and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect placement of the fold in the hose (between 4 and 5 feet) or placing the half hitch on the folded portion less than 6” or greater than 18” from the end shall result in ½ point reduction per infraction.

• Incorrect hoist preparation or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill.

Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, page 299

Skill Sheet 7-I-14



Hose Rolls Donut Rolls 5 Points Total

Task: The candidate shall donut roll a 2 ½ “or 3” 50’ length of hose. Standard: Given a 50’ length of 2 ½ “or 3” hose, the candidate shall donut roll the hoseline within 2 minutes while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Note either method of making a donut roll listed below is acceptable. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing.

Method One 3. The candidate shall lay the section of hose flat and in a straight line. 4. The candidate shall start the roll from a point 5 or 6 feet off center toward the

male coupling. 5. The candidate shall roll the hose toward the female end. Leave sufficient space at

the center loop to insert a hand for carrying. a. Note: When the roll is complete, the male coupling will be inside the roll.

The female coupling will be about 3 feet ahead of the male coupling. 6. The candidate shall extend the short length of hose at the female end over the

male threads to protect them. 7. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it and check for accuracy. 8. Should the candidate not complete the hose roll within the allotted time, the

observer shall call “Stop” (at 2 minutes) and no points shall be awarded. Method Two

9. The candidate shall grasp either coupling end, and carry it to the opposite end. a. Note: The looped section should lie flat, straight, and without twists.

10. The candidate shall face the coupling ends. 11. The candidate shall start the roll on the male coupling side about

2 ½‘from the bend. 12. The candidate shall roll the hose toward the male coupling. 13. The candidate shall pull the female side back a short distance to relieve the

tension if the hose behind the roll becomes tight during the roll. 14. The candidate shall lay the roll flat on the ground as the roll approaches the male

coupling. 15. The candidate shall draw the female coupling end around the male coupling end

to complete the roll. 16. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it and check for accuracy. 17. Should the candidate not complete the hose roll within the allotted time, the

observer shall call “Stop” (at 2 minutes) and no points shall be awarded.



Grading Criteria • Correctly preformed hose rolls within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Loosely rolled, female coupling is 90 degrees past the male coupling or non-

uniformed rolls (greater than two fingers width) shall receive ½ point deduction for each infraction (maximum of three).

• A correctly rolled donut roll shall consist of a tight roll with the male coupling protected by the female and the female coupling extending past the male coupling between 90 and 180 degrees.

• Failure of the female to go past the male shall result in 0 points. • Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hose roll and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect hose rolls or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill. Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, page 686 Skill Sheet 13-I-3.



Hose Lays Flat Load (Preconnect)

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall flat load 150’ of 1 ¾“or 1 ½” hose. Standard: Given 3 50’ lengths (150’ total) of 1 ¾“or 1 ½” hose, the candidate shall flat load the hoseline within 5 minutes while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall attach the female end of the coupling to the discharge outlet

a. Note: if no discharge outlet is present the candidate shall verbalize “I am connecting the female end of the coupling to the discharge outlet”.

4. The candidate shall lay the first length of hose flat in the bed against the side wall. 5. The candidate shall angle the hose to lay the next fold adjacent to the first fold. 6. The candidate shall continue building the first tier in this manner. 7. The candidate shall make a fold that extends approximately 8 inches beyond the

load at a point that is approximately one-third the total length of the load. a. Note: This loop will later serve as a pull handle.

8. The candidate shall continue laying the hose in the same manner building each tier with folds laid progressively across the bed.

9. The candidate shall mad a fold that extends approximately 14 inches beyond the load at a point that is approximately two-thirds the total length of the load.

a. Note: This loop will also serve as a pull handle. 10. The candidate will complete the load and attach a nozzle and lay it on top of the load. 11. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it and check for accuracy. 12. Should the candidate not complete the hose lay within the allotted time, the

observer shall call “Stop” (at 5 minutes) and no points shall be awarded. Grading Criteria

• Correctly performed hose lays within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Failure to verbalize or connect the female coupling to the discharge outlet, failure

to incorporate four hose handles, failure to incorporate a Dutchman (if needed) will result in ½ point per infraction deduction (maximum of three).

• Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided the candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hose lay and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect hose lays or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill. Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, Skill Sheet 13-I-9 on page 692



Hose Lays Minuteman Load

5 Points Total Task: The candidate shall Minuteman load 100’ of 1 ¾“or 1 ½” hose. Standard: Given 2 50’ lengths (100’ total) of 1 ¾“or 1 ½” hose, the candidate shall Minuteman load the hoseline within 5 minutes while wearing gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall attach the first section of hose to the discharge outlet. Do not

connect it to the other lengths of hose. a. Note: if no discharge outlet is present the candidate shall verbalize “I am

connecting the female end of the coupling to the discharge outlet”. 4. Utilize Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, figure 13.8 on page 663 and

skill sheet 13-I-11 on page 694 for steps on completing this hose load. 5. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it and check for accuracy. 6. Should the candidate not complete the hose lay within the allotted time, the

observer shall call “Stop” (at 5 minutes) and no points shall be awarded. Grading Criteria

• Correctly performed hose lays within the time limit shall be credited 5 points. • Failure to verbalize or connect the female coupling to the discharge outlet, failure

to incorporate a Dutchman (if needed) will result in ½ point per infraction deduction (maximum of two).

• Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided the candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hose lay and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect hose lays or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill. Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, picture on page 663 figure 13.80 - Skill Sheet 13-I-11 on page 694.



Hydrants Dressing the Hydrant

10 Points Total Task: The candidate shall make the hydrant connection. Standard: Given a 50’ length of 5” or LDH hose, the candidate shall make the hydrant connection within 3 minutes while wearing the following PPE turnout coat, bunker pants, boots, helmet and gloves (leather, utility or structural firefighting) with 100% accuracy. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. a. The candidate shall be in full PPE (as outlined above) prior to beginning

time. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing. 3. The candidate shall grasp a sufficient amount of hose to reach the hydrant. 4. The candidate shall proceed to the hydrant with all of the equipment necessary to

make the connection. a. Equipment shall include supply hose, hydrant wrench, gate valve, adapters

(if needed), and spanner wrench (if needed). 5. The candidate shall wrap the hydrant. 6. The candidate shall approach the hydrant and remove the appropriate caps.

a. Steamer if available and 5” hose is used. 7. The candidate shall place the hydrant wrench on the valve stem operating nut.

a. The candidate shall state “I am flushing the hydrant” and turn the valve stem operating nut 5 times in the opening direction and then 5 times in the closing direction.

8. The candidate shall connect the supply hose to the appropriate hydrant port. a. Steamer if available and 5” hose is used.

9. The candidate shall place the gate valve on a 2.5” outlet port. 10. The candidate shall confirm with the observer that the engine is ready to receive

water and state “I am fully opening the hydrant” and turn the valve stem operating nut 12 times in the opening direction.

11. The candidate shall return to the apparatus verbalizing “I am tightening leaking couplings” and pushing the hose toward the curb along the way.

12. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time and record it and check for accuracy.

13. Should the candidate not complete the hydrant dress within the allotted time, the observer shall call “Stop” (at 3 minutes) and no points shall be awarded.



Grading Criteria • Correctly performed hydrant dresses within the time limit shall be credited 10

points. • Failure to verbalize flushing the hydrant, or to verbalize opening the hydrant,

failure to select the correct port (primary or secondary), failure to bring all needed items to the hydrant, failure to check the connections or push the hose toward the curb shall receive 1 point deduction per infraction.

• Failure to perform steps in the above prescribed order shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction provided candidate does eventually perform the step. Failure to correctly complete or omission of any step shall constitute an incorrect hydrant dressing and no points shall be awarded.

• Incorrect hydrant dressing or time limit exceeded shall receive no points for this skill.

• A 50% point reduction shall occur if candidate stands front of a discharge port when opening the hydrant since possible injury could occur. This is considered a critical error.

Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, Skill Sheet 13-I-12 pg 695 (Please note some steps have been modified for this competition).



PPE Donning Personal Protective Equipment

15 Points Total Task: The candidate shall don his/her personal protective equipment. Standard: The candidate shall correctly check their SCBA tank pressures and alarms within a reasonable amount of time, they shall then don their PPE (to include nomex hood, bunker pants, structural firefighting boots, turnout coat, SCBA mask, SCBA tank assembly and structural firefighting gloves) with 100% accuracy. All PPE must be donned correctly within the second 120 seconds to include fully opening main valve open on SCBA tank. Conditions:

1. The observer shall read the above Standard to the candidate. 2. The candidate shall be given a reasonable amount of time to arrange their gear as

they like and check their SCBA. Checking the SCBA

3. Position SCBA in front of you for donning. 4. Check cylinder pressure (must be at least 90% full). 5. Open valve and listen for the audible alarm as the system pressurizes. 6. Verify the operation of the low air supply warning alarm. 7. Check the regulator gauge and cylinder gauge to ensure that they read within 10%

of the same pressure. 8. Close SCBA main valve and release pressure, reset all alarms. 9. Once the above check is complete, the observer shall give the command of

“Don”. Donning PPE

10. The candidate shall don protective coat, trousers and boots. a. Boots may be pre-positioned in trousers.

11. Pull protective hood down around the neck. 12. Place gloves in a readily accessible location. 13. Don the SCBA in accordance with manufacturer recommendations (secure all

straps, properly position facepiece, check the exhalation valve, check facepiece seal, and attach to regulator).

a. Turn on SCBA main valve. 14. Place hood and helmet in proper position for fireground operations.

a. Helmet shield, if present must be down. 15. Don gloves. 16. The candidate does not go on air a 17. When finished the candidate shall state “Done”. The observer shall stop the time

and record it. 18. The observer shall check donning for accuracy.



19. Should the candidate not complete the donning within the allotted time, the observer shall call “Stop” (at 120 seconds) and no points shall be allotted for donning.

a. Points may still be allotted for correctly checking SCBA even if the donning portion was not completed (maximum of 5 points).

Grading Criteria

• Correctly checked SCBA and setup gear (within a reaonsable amount of time – 5 points) and donned PPE (within 120 seconds – 10 points) shall be awarded 15 points.

• Correctly checked SCBA (steps 3-9) completed within a reasonable amount of time shall be allotted ½ point per step. If not completed in a reasonable amount of time but done correctly the candidate shall receive 2 ½ points for this portion.

• Donning completed (in second 120 seconds) shall be defined as all gear on and SCBA main valve on. Deficiencies shall receive a deduction of ½ point per infraction.

o Deficiencies include: § Gloves on wrong hands § Any buckle, strap, zipper, Velcro or snap not connected. § Any exposed skin § Helmet Shield, if present up § Any other safety violation

• SCBA pressure check (steps 3-9) MUST be completed in order listed; Donning (steps 11-16) may be completed in any order so long as the completed donning procedure is correct within the second 120 seconds.

Reference Essentials of Fire Fighting fifth edition, Pages 214-221, Skill Sheets 5-I-1 through 5-I-3. Please note there are modifications for the SkillsUSA competition.



Candidate Challenge 30 Points total – On Air 20 points total – Off Air

Task: The candidate shall complete the SkillsUSA Candidate Challenge. Standard: Given a SkillsUSA candidate challenge course, and all necessary equipment, the candidate shall complete the course with 100% accuracy while wearing full PPE (structural firefighting boots, bunker pants, turnout coat, Nomex hood, SCBA – to include mask, helmet and structural firefighting gloves) within the prescribed time limits. Candidates may choose to challenge the course either “On Air” or “Off Air”. “On Air” candidates shall receive 30 points maximum for completing the course and have 7 minutes (07:00) to complete the course. “Off Air” candidates shall receive 20 points maximum for completing the course and have 7 minutes (07:00) to complete the course. Safety Brief: The Candidate Challenge course is designed to test each student’s physical conditioning and agility. Candidates who wish to challenge the course must be in good to excellent physical shape with no medical conditions that would preclude them from participating in the physical tasks presented. Candidates must have signed parental consent to compete in the course and do so at their own risk. While challenging the course any unsafe act on the part of a candidate will result in immediate disqualification. Disqualification for unsafe acts shall result in no points being awarded for the event. Unsafe acts include but are not limited to:

Running At no time shall a candidate run on the course. Running is defined as both feet leaving the ground at the same time; a brisk walk however is encouraged. Unsafe roof operations Candidates may not lean over the building in an unsafe manner when hoisting. Equipment Abuse Any equipment must be placed, not thrown, to the ground when the candidate is done with it.

Should any candidate feel faint, more than moderately out of breath, or like they are going to pass out – they should notify the nearest observer and STOP immediately. Candidates who stop will be award no points for the course, regardless of what portions they have completed. No candidate who is sick (cold, flu, etc) should attempt the course. Should a candidate request a stop the staff will access whether EMS is needed for the candidate. Any candidate may request EMS; however NO CANDIDATE MAY REFUSE EMS SHOULD THE STAFF DECIDE IT IS WARRANTED.



Conditions: 1. The observer shall read the above Standard and Safety Briefing to the candidate.

a. The observer shall ensure the candidate has a signed permission slip to participate in the course.

b. Candidates should be in full PPE at the start of the course. c. Candidates must declare before starting the course whether they are

choosing to be “On Air” or “Off Air”. i. After declaring either “On Air” or “Off Air” no change of status

shall be allowed. 2. Upon giving the command “Go” the observer shall begin timing.

Bundle of Hose Carry - Up (Note: Bundle will be likely be 100 ft of 1 ¾ hose)

3. The candidate shall pick up the bundle and carry it up five (5) flights of stairs. a. Each stair must be touched on the way up. b. At the top, the candidate shall put down the bundle of hose and proceed to

the next station – the 1¾” donut roll hoist. 1¾” Donut Hoist

4. The candidate shall hoist a 50’ length of donut rolled 1¾” hose up five (5) stories with the provided utility rope in a hand over hand manner.

a. When complete the candidate shall place the donut roll on the ground and proceed to the next station – the 1 3/4” bundle of hose carry down.

Bundle of Hose Carry - Down

5. The candidate shall pick up the bundle of hose and carry it down five (5) flights of stairs.

a. Each stair must be touched on the way down. b. At the bottom, the candidate shall put down the bundle of hose and

proceed to the next station – the Keiser Sled. Keiser Sled

6. Each Candidate shall pickup the hammer, raise the hammer for each strike and move the sled by striking it with the hammer from one point to the other as indicated on the sled (i.e. move the sled approximately 2 feet). Then proceed to the next station – the 2 ½ attack line advance.

2½” Attack Line Advance

7. The candidate shall pick up the play pipe nozzle and advance the uncharged 2½” attack line 100’.

a. To complete the candidate and play pipe must cross the 100’ line marker. b. At the marker, the candidate shall put down the nozzle and proceed to the

next station – the 50’ Rescue Randy drag.



50’ Rescue Randy Drag 8. The candidate shall drag or carry Rescue Randy 50’ to the finish line.

a. Rescue Randy must be completely past the 50’ finish line to complete this event.

9. When the candidate has completed the course, the observer shall note the time and record it. If successful, 30 points (for “On Air”) minus any deductions or 20 points (for “Off Air”) minus any deductions shall be allotted.

10. Should the candidate not complete the course within the allotted time, the observer shall call “Stop” (at 7 minutes “On Air”, 7 minutes “Off Air”). Failure to complete the course within the maximum allotted time shall result in no points for the event.

Grading Criteria

• 1 point per following infraction shall be deducted: o Failure to touch a stair (1 point per stair). o Dropping the Donut Roll (2 ½ points per drop).

§ Resting (stopping during the hoist – not allowing the donut roll to descend), or intentionally allowing the Donut Roll to return to the ground in a controlled hand over hand manner is permitted with no point deduction, however it is discouraged due to time restraints of the course.

o Falling or dropping Rescue Randy during drag (1 point per drop or fall). § Resting, or setting Rescue Randy down intentionally to rest is

permitted with no point deduction, however it is discouraged due to time restraints of the course.

• Failure to complete the course, stopping in the middle of the course, exceeding the time limits, safety violations of any kind, or removing the mask if in “on air” status during the course shall result in no points being awarded.

Reference This document serves as reference for the rules and regulations of the Candidate Challenge course.

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