CIVIL SERVICE Warren sets firefighter exams

The firefighters' test consists of written and physical agility portions.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- The written civil service test for new city firefighters is set for Nov. 20, but the application deadline is Saturday.
The test will be used to compile the list from which firefighters are selected.
"There are no openings right now, but once the list is certified, probably sometime after the first of the year, the list will be good for two years," Chief Ken Nussle said. "During that time, we have a handful of firefighters who will be able to retire."
The civil service exam is divided into two parts, written and physical agility. The physical agility portion will be scheduled at a later date.
Applications must be completed and notarized and filed between 10 a.m. and noon Saturday at the fire department, 111 South St. S.E. No applications will be accepted after Saturday.
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens between 18 and 35 years old on Nov. 20, the date of the test; high school graduates or possess a GED; and have a valid Ohio driver's license.
Only people who earn at least a 70 percent on the written exam may take the physical agility portion.
Additional credit will be allotted for veterans, those who have completed Ohio Basic Fire School, those with previous firefighter experience and people with a college degree.
Nussle said that whether any of the firefighters eligible to retire chooses to do so is up to them. Increased health-care costs for retirees may deter some.
He estimated there are eight who will meet retirement eligibility in the two years the list will be valid.
The department has 75 firefighters. The city hired 16 firefighters in 2002, bringing the department to the 75 mark.
denise_dick@vindy.com