Eight ladies met at the YWCA Gym on Glen Street at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday in New Britain to begin the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).

 

The test consists of eight separate events, which test physical strength. With the support of the New Britain Fire Department, the women received training from NBFD firefighter Jill Vaccaro.

Vaccaro, who is the only woman in the department, believes that the program is important.

"A lot of women haven’t had the opportunity to do something like this. The New Britain Fire Department didn’t have Affirmative Action plans in place before I came here, and I think that’s why I’m the only one right now."

Vaccaro believes that there are challenges for women but says "if you get knocked down, you have to get back up."

"I was very competitive in school and still have a competitive spirit, although not as much as before. However, the biggest challenge for most women will be with children. Women are the primary caregivers for children, so that may be an issue for some out there, but I believe departments are more prepared now for these things. The job is physically demanding."

To show the physical demands, Vaccaro demonstrated techniques that women should use when it comes to forcible entry.

Slamming a sledgehammer into the padded wall, she showed the proper stance, positioning, and handling for the sledge based on a woman’s physiques.

Vaccaro also pointed out that much of the adjustments that have to be made by women are because the firefighting tools were designed for men.

Also on hand to lend support and assist was Deputy Chief Robert DiPietro, chief of training for the New Britain Fire Department. DiPietro believes this program is the first step to diversity in the department.

"We are trying to create a more diverse workplace. It gives the residents more confidence in the community," DiPietro said. "The YWCA started this program, and has created an opportunity for more women to be firefighters. They have the same high standards, and we are here to provide guidance, help and equipment."

According to DiPietro, the job of the firefighter has evolved; has become very customer service oriented; and the addition of women would be an asset. Although he sees the biggest challenge for the department as getting the workplace to accurately reflect the community, he believes the women will be met with tough physical challenges.

"I don’t have any doubt that they will pass the written and the oral examination, but the physical test is very rigorous."

Tricia Regan of Rocky Hill has taken the CPAT twice and is determined to pass it this time.

"I dropped tools the last time, that’s why I didn’t pass, but I will next time," Regan said. "I want to be a firefighter for the excitement and I like to help people.I also love the camaraderie and teamwork."

Once the women pass the written and oral examination, they will take the CAPT.If they pass all three tests, they will be put into a hiring pool.

Sole New Britain female firefighter Vaccaro encourages women interested in firefighting to go toward their goals -- but not if it’s her daughter.

"If my daughter wants to be a firefighter, I would roll my eyes. I mean, I think everyone wants their children to be a doctor, right?"

Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext. 221.