DFES WA Career Firefighter Aptitude study plan

Define the bushfire behaviour triangle (fuel, weather, topography) and explain how each factor changes fire spread rate

List the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ratings and describe what each rating means for a home's risk

Identify the three stages of a bushfire emergency warning (Advice, Watch and Act, Emergency Warning) and state the required action for each

Explain the difference between 'leave early' and 'stay and defend' and list two conditions that make staying unsafe

Describe the main causes of home fires and the correct response for a cooking-oil fire versus an electrical fire

Describe the structure of a cyclone (eye, eyewall, rainbands) and the cyclone category scale used in Australia

List five actions to take before, during and after a cyclone, separating them by phase

Distinguish a severe thunderstorm warning from a severe weather warning and state what each covers

Identify the main storm hazards (wind, hail, lightning, flash flooding) and one protective action for each

Explain why you should not shelter under trees during a storm and what to do instead

Explain the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning and who issues each

Describe the correct actions for driving into floodwater and state why the 'if it's flooded, forget it' rule exists

Define a tsunami and explain what causes one and how much warning time is typical for the WA coast

List the natural warning signs of a tsunami and the correct immediate action (move inland and to high ground)

Distinguish a tsunami watch from a tsunami warning and state the action for each

Describe the correct 'drop, cover, hold' action during an earthquake and explain why doorways are no longer recommended

List post-earthquake hazards (aftershocks, gas leaks, damaged structures) and the safe response to each

Define a hazardous material and identify the purpose of the ERG guide and the UN hazard class system

Explain the correct response to a hazmat spill: evacuate upwind and uphill, avoid low-lying areas, and call emergency services

Identify the meaning of common hazmat placards and the difference between flammable, corrosive and toxic materials

List the official WA warning channels (Emergency WA, ABC radio, alert apps) and describe how each is used

Identify groups at higher risk (older adults, people with disability, children, people with limited English, isolated residents) and one planning consideration for each

Explain the Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) and when it is broadcast

Describe how to build a personal emergency plan for someone with a mobility or communication need

Explain the role of a community emergency management plan and how residents access it

Describe the roles and responsibilities of a career firefighter versus a volunteer firefighter in WA

Explain the recruitment and selection process for DFES career firefighters, including the aptitude and physical components

List the core values and behavioural expectations assessed during DFES recruitment

Identify the training pathway and probation requirements for new career firefighters

Describe the commitment expectations for volunteers (training, availability, callouts)

Re-test all ten domains using timed practice sets

Identify the three weakest domains from practice results and re-read only those sections

Correct every missed practice question with a written explanation of the correct answer

Practise applying warning-stage decisions to mixed-hazard scenarios

Complete two full-length timed mock exams under exam conditions

Review each mock exam and confirm all previously weak areas are now correct

Memorise the warning stages and required actions for all hazard types

Confirm logistics: exam format, timing, permitted materials and identification requirements