- Be in good physical condition before you arrive.  The Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) is the minimum requirement for physical fitness.

- Recognize that firefighting is a dangerous career.  People's lives are at stake, including your own.  Be serious and responsible.

- Learn about the history of PF&R.  We have over 100 years of rich tradition and history.

- Understand that the year you invest in the Training Academy is an investment in your future career.  Firefighting is not a job, it is a career.

- Be a team player.  Do not try to be the star.  Help others around you.

- Take care of yourself physically and emotionally.  Rest, eat well and take time to spend with your family and friends.

- Keep an open mind about new experiences. You are going to be learning the techniques of PF&R they may be different from your previous experience.

- Be prepared to train in all climate conditions, from hot summers to cold, wet winters.

- Use good time-management skills for your studying and physical training.

- Come to work every day prepared physically and mentally to accomplish any challenges given to you.

- Attitude is everything. It is all about selflessness, not selfishness.

- Take pride in your profession, and the fact that you are being extended the opportunity to become a Portland Firefighter.  We'll get you started, but it is up to you to continue to improve.  The degree of success that you experience is dependent on the amount of effort you put into your career.