Fitness Tests Ahead for Mississippi City Firefighters

The City of Olive Branch is planning to require all firefighters to take physical fitness tests.

The Commercial Appeal reports that, until now, only new employees had to reach a fitness standard. Fire chief Johnny Eason said he soon will begin training to reach the standard for his age group. He said the testing will be done in September, giving firefighters plenty of time to get into shape.

The test adopted by city officials is based on a military system that takes age into account. A 55-year-old will not be expected to perform the same as a 25-year-old.

The firefighters will be required to perform sit ups, pull ups and a 1.5-mile run, all exercises that can be performed with existing city equipment.