AFO members are usually surprised by the large amount of helpful information and resources contained in this section. Learn from 24 static and 24 dynamic video-based simulations to teach you the basics of managing an emergency scene and responding to the developments that typically occur. The 24 scenarios cover the types of emergencies commonly seen during Fire Officer Assessment Centers. View 11 core instructional videos, then apply what you learned to new situations by reviewing the numerous photo examples of the most common, all-risk emergency incidents.
Online Courses Overview
Employee Counseling
As a member, you will start by viewing AFO’s instructional video to learn the 8-Step Process to develop a system that will help you prepare for and manage a counseling session with even the most difficult employee. You will then review up to 14 Employee Counseling training videos (9 fire officer, 5 BC) to learn how to interview an employee, conduct a counseling session, and implement the appropriate corrective action. A review of the written documentation for each scenario will teach you about appropriate documentation, from a notice of discussion up to a written reprimand.
Oral Interview Questions
Learn the five dimensions typically used to score most fire officer and BC oral interviews. Review over 75 pages of Fire Officer and 42 pages of BC promotional oral interview questions and answers, all of which have appeared on Fire Officer or BC exams around the country. Watch our videos to learn how to prepare for your interview, how to read subtle clues from raters, and how to ensure that you are answering the question asked, not the question you want to answer.
In-Basket Exercises
Members learn how to successfully prioritize the issues presented and how to use a systematic approach to successfully manage each scenario to completion. Review 5 fire officer exercises, and an additional 4 exercises for BC members. Once you complete an in-basket exercise, use the answer key to review all the factors and actions you should have considered to maximize your score for that In-Basket exercise. With practice, AFO members can show dramatic improvement in managing a complex In-Basket Exercise and avoid leaving points on the table.
Writing Assignments:
These are a common component of a promotional exam, but most firefighters struggle with this section. Fire officers and BCs are expected to create emails, memos, evaluations, oral and written reprimands. Learn to produce documents that are professional, concise, organized, and grammatically correct using an established system. AFO members can use our templates to practice with 25 fire officer or BC writing assignments covering a wide variety of topics and format types. By timing your practice assignments, then comparing your work with AFO’s finished documents, you can effectively prepare for the writing portion of your exam.
Chief Fedak is a Battalion Chief with the Orange County Fire Authority. Due to state conflict of interest laws, the services provided by AFO may not be offered to current OCFA employees holding the rank of Battalion Chief or lower.