Pohnpei Fire Department recruits tackle physical challenge test

By Bill Jaynes The Kaselehlie Press

January 20, 2023

Pohnpei—Passerbys on Pohnpei’s Dekehtik Causeway on January 20 may have noticed a fire truck and a large group of firefighters, some looking for all the world like they were trying to pound a large truck tire into submission with a sledge hammer. According to Pohnpei Fire Department’s Lt. Alfred Damarlane, what was actually happening was a physical test for potential new fire department recruits.

Recruits first were required to don the full fire fighting gear complete with heavy oxygen tank and helmet. Their first test was to carry a full length of rolled up fire hose on their shoulder while stepping up and down on a cement block. Next, they were required to pull the unrolled hose to a pylon. Next, they had to drag a heavy block behind them with a rope to the next pylon. From there they began their journey back with a heavy chain saw. Reaching the large truck tire, they had to pull another cement block hand over hand by a thin rope. Only when that was complete could they begin bashing the truck tire with a sledge hammer until the tire crossed the finish line. It was a timed test in the sun.

“We take this very seriously,” Lt. Damarlane said. “What we do to get ready could save their lives.”