MESH Pre-Mailing Checklist

Prior to mailing your packet, please use this list to guide you through the registration
process. Please include ONLY the applicable documents listed below and clip them to the
Interest Form (no staples).

 Read all instructions carefully

 Complete Interest Form as directed

 Sign & date Interest Form

 Attach a copy of your Drivers License

 Attach a copy of your State Fire Certificate

 Attach a copy of your EMT and/or Paramedic License

 Attach a copy of your EMT and/or Paramedic Certificate

 Attach a copy of your EVOC Certificate

 Attach a copy of your Fire Inspector Certificate/s

 Attach a copy of your Broward Fire Academy County-Wide Physical Ability

Card (BPAT). Note: If you are registered for a future BPAT, include the date of

the test in the appropriate space on the Interest Form.

Note: Do not send any other Physical Ability Cards (e.g. Coral Springs Fire

Academy)

 Attach a copy of your Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) Certificate (if

applicable)

 Enclose payment of $45US in the form of a cashier’s check, official bank

check, or a money order. Personal checks will not be accepted.

 Mail your packet on or before March 9, 2011 to this address:

MESH Program 2011-A Registration

Margate Fire Rescue

600 Rock Island Road

Margate, FL 33063

 Obtain delivery confirmation from the shipper. MESH does not contact you

regarding delivery of your Registration documents.

MESH Program * 600 Rock Island Rd. * Margate, FL 33063

(954) 935-5446 http://www.meshprogram.com
ENCLOSURE ONE (1)

Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program

MESH PROGRAM 2011-A

SECTION 1: MESH Program Overview

The Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring (MESH) Program is designed to

consolidate pre-employment testing procedures often duplicated by Emergency Services
Provider (ESP) agencies. Through MESH, participating agencies are readily able to
obtain the information necessary to select potential employees.
The MESH Program allows you to test once a year for multiple ESP agencies. MESH
also allows you to update your skills status without having to retake the entire test1.
The MESH Program offers PREPARATORY ORIENTATIONS designed to increase
your “comfort level” both during the testing, and throughout your career.
The MESH instructors are carefully selected professionals who are positioned in the
emergency services field, dedicated to improving our industry, and anxious to make sure
that you reach your goals. Their primary goal is to attempt to improve your chances of
gaining employment in this exciting and rewarding field.
Please read all of the enclosed information carefully, and follow all of the instructions.
We wish you the best of luck!

SECTION 2: MESH Program / Participating Agency Requirements

1) You must have a valid DRIVER’S LICENSE;

2) Participating Agencies require certified firefighters to possess or obtain a valid
BROWARD COUNTY-WIDE PHYSICAL ABILITY CARD from the
Broward Fire Academy (see SECTION 8 for BPAT registration instructions);

SECTION 3: MESH Program 2011-A Written & Practical Test Session Dates
Note: All tests are given at the Institute for Public Safety, 3501 S.W. Davie Road,
Davie, FL. You may choose to attend either session date (Friday or Saturday).
1) Firefighter Written Testing will be offered on Friday 3/18/11, and Saturday
3/19/11.
2) EMT & Paramedic Written Testing will be offered on Friday 3/18/11, and
Saturday 3/19/11.
3) EMT & Paramedic Practical Testing will be offered on Friday 3/18/11, and
Saturday 3/19/11.

Note: Test session times will be scheduled at the Director’s discretion.

PLEASE ARRIVE BY 8:00 AM FOR PRE-TEST SIGN-IN!

Page 1 of 3
1
See enclosure titled “Skill Status / Personal Information Update Form”
Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program * 600 Rock Island Rd. * Margate, FL 33063
(954) 935-5446 http://www.meshprogram.com
ENCLOSURE ONE (1)

SECTION 4: MESH 2011-A Program Orientations

1) The MESH Program includes PREPARATORY ORIENTATIONS covering the

following subject matter: (there are no fees for the orientations)
a) firefighter written tests
b) the County-Wide Physical Ability Test (at Broward Fire Academy)
c) EMT & Paramedic written test
d) EMT & Paramedic practical skills test
We highly recommend that you attend the Orientation!
2) Preparatory Orientations for the County-Wide Physical Ability Test are offered
for certified firefighters at the Broward Fire Academy, 2600 S.W. 71st Terrace,
Davie, FL. These Orientations include a physical ability test demonstration, and a
limited physical ability practice. Please contact the Academy for further
information. Their phone number is: (754) 321-1300
3) Preparatory Orientations for the written & practical tests will be offered at the
Institute for Public Safety (formerly CJI), 3501 S.W. Davie Road, Davie, FL,
each night from 6:00pm to 10:00pm, beginning Thursday 2/24/11, and ending on
Friday 2/25/11. The Orientations include a program overview, question and
answer session, job-related discussions, and offer similar material each night.

SECTION 5: MESH Program 2011-A Written & Practical Test Descriptions &
Reference Materials

1) The testing information and reference materials are as follows:

a. Firefighter Written Test: 100 questions (allotted time 90 minutes)
Reference material: Firefighter: Essentials of Fire Fighting and Fire
Department Operations, IFSTA, 5th Edition, ISBN-10: 0135151112
b. EMT or Paramedic Written Test: 50 questions (allotted time 60
minutes) Reference material: EMT: DOT EMT Curriculum, AAOS
Emergency Care, 9th edition ISBN-10: 0763771414; Paramedic:
Emergency Care in the Streets, 6th Edition ISBN-10: 0763729078,
ACLS Guidelines (2005 Edition)
c. EMT or Paramedic Practical Test Scenario (allotted time varies)
Reference material: Emergency Medical Technician: DOT EMT
Curriculum; Paramedic: Emergency Care in the Streets, 6th Edition
ISBN-10: 0763729078, ACLS Guidelines (2005 Edition)

SECTION 6: MESH Program 2011-A Test Results

Your results will be mailed to the address on file within 30 days of the release of
the MESH 2011-A Master Eligibility List.
Page 2 of 3

Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program * 600 Rock Island Rd. * Margate, FL 33063
(954) 935-5446 http://www.meshprogram.com
ENCLOSURE ONE (1)

SECTION 7: MESH 2011-A Program Registration Instructions

1) You must submit the completed form titled:

a) INTEREST FORM, and
b) a photocopy of your current DRIVER’S LICENSE, and
c) a photocopy of your STATE or NATIONAL FIRE CERTIFICATE
d) a photocopy of your EMT and/or PARAMEDIC STATE and/or
NATIONAL LICENSE* AND CERTIFICATE, and
e) (if applicable), a clean photocopy of your EVOC CERTIFICATE
f) (if applicable), a clean photocopy of your State/County Fire Inspector
certificate and license
g) (if applicable), a clean photocopy of your valid BROWARD FIRE
ACADEMY COUNTY-WIDE PHYSICAL ABILITY CARD (BPAT)
h) (if applicable), a clean photocopy of your current, valid CPAT**, and
i) a CASHIERS CHECK, OFFICIAL BANK CHECK, or MONEY
ORDER for $45 US, made payable to the City of Margate
PERSONAL CHECKS ARE NOT ACCEPTED;

2) Please place these items in a stamped envelope with return address and mail to:
MESH Program 2011-A Registration
Margate Fire Rescue
600 Rock Island Road
Margate, FL 33063

3) The envelope must be postmarked on or before Wednesday, March 9, 2011.

Important Notes: 1) Delivery confirmation should be requested from the USPS, FedEx,
or UPS. MESH does not contact you to confirm delivery of the Interest Form.
2) Do not contact or hand deliver registration forms to Margate Fire Administration.

SECTION 8: Broward County-Wide Physical Ability Test (BPAT) Registration

Instructions
Certified firefighters must pass the physical ability test to be eligible for employment
consideration. MESH does not require the BPAT for Program Registration. Please
contact the Broward Fire Academy for PAT registration instructions and information on
available dates. Their contact phone is (754) 321-1300 or online @ www.bfa.edu

Important Notes: Please do not mail Physical Ability registration forms to MESH. *If you do not hold a
current EMT or Paramedic State or National license, please register as an EMT or PM trainee and
update MESH when you receive your license. **Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) information is
used for reporting purposes only. MESH does not accept any other physical ability tests (e.g. Coral
Springs Fire Academy) in lieu of the Broward Fire Academy PAT card.
Page 3 of 3

Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program * 600 Rock Island Rd. * Margate, FL 33063
(954) 935-5446 http://www.meshprogram.com
 Official Use Only
ENCLOSURE TWO (2) Payment Received
MESH PROGRAM 2011-A ____________________

Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program

INTEREST FORM
SECTION 1: Personal Information: Please print clearly or type your responses.
LAST NAME: ___________________________________________________
FIRST NAME: ___________________________________________________
STREET ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________
CITY, STATE, ZIP: ___________________________________________________
PHONE #: (__________) ___________ - ___________________
OTHER PHONE #: (__________) ___________ - ___________________
DRIVERS LIC. #: ____________________________________________
DATE OF BIRTH: _________ /____ / 19_____ Last 4 Digits of SS#: __ __ __ __
Current Certifications: Please initial directly to the LEFT of your current certification/s:
______ NONE; ______ FF; ______ EMT; ______ PM; ______ FIRE INSPECTOR
BROWARD BPAT DATE: ___/___/____; CPAT DATE: ___/___/____; EVOC DATE: ___/___/____

SECTION 2: Emergency Services Provider Agency (ESP) Selection: Please place a mark
directly to the LEFT of the ESP Agency/s that you would like to receive your test results:

ALL AGENCIES (includes additional Agencies joining MESH in the future)

BSO Fire Rescue Coconut Creek Coral Gables
Davie Deerfield Beach Delray Beach
Hallandale Beach Hialeah Hollywood
Key Biscayne Lighthouse Point Margate
Miramar North Lauderdale Oakland Park
Pembroke Pines Pompano Beach

SECTION 3: Written & Practical Test Selection: Please indicate the test or tests that you are
taking by placing a mark in the adjacent box: (Note: only choose one Medical Regimen)
(FF) Firefighter Written Test (Required for certified firefighters)

(FFT) Firefighter Trainee Written Test (In School or awaiting State certification)

(EMT) Emergency Medical Technician Written & Practical (licensed EMT)

(EMTT) Emergency Medical Technician Trainee Written & Practical (AED completed)

(PM) Paramedic Written & Practical (licensed Paramedic)

(PMT) Paramedic Trainee Written & Practical (Cardiology / ACLS completed)

I certify this information to be true and agree to the release of my personal information and my test
results for employment and/or training consideration:
SIGNATURE: _________________________________ DATE: ______ /_____/______
Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring Program * 600 Rock Island Rd. * Margate, FL 33063
(954) 935-5446 http://www.meshprogram.com
ENCLOSURE 5 MESH Program Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the MESH Program?
The Municipal Employment Screening & Hiring (MESH) Program is a multi-agency employment-
screening program designed to eliminate the duplication of pre-employment testing.
2. Why is MESH called a program?
A program, unlike a test, is constructed for the long term.
3. Does MESH provide training courses?
No, MESH does not currently provide training courses for Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technician, or
Paramedic. However, if you are in the MESH Program, you may be recommended for training based on
your specific needs.
4. Is MESH an employer?
No, MESH is not an employer.
5. How long has MESH been around and who operates MESH?
The MESH Program was created in 1999. The Intellectual Property Rights are the sole property of
Robert G. Stevens, the MESH Program creator. MESH is operated by the City of Margate, Florida.
6. What agencies participate in MESH?
Currently there are sixteen (17) South Florida area agencies participating in the MESH Program:
BSO, Coconut Creek, Coral Gables, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hialeah,
Hollywood, Key Biscayne, Lighthouse Point, Margate, Miramar, North Lauderdale, Oakland Park,
Pembroke Pines, and Pompano Beach.
7. How often is the MESH Program offered?
The MESH Program is normally offered twice a year, usually in the spring and fall.
8. Do I have to be a Florida state certified firefighter, EMT or Paramedic, to participate in MESH?
No, MESH does not require you to have any certifications to participate. The participating agencies may
require you to have specific certifications. The Broward Fire Academy requires proof of firefighter
certification for eligibility to take the Broward County-Wide Ability Test (BPAT).
9. What are the chances of get hired without any certifications?
Slim to none. All currently participating agencies require some certifications.
10. What tests will I have to take?
Certified firefighters will be required to take a firefighter written test. If you are a certified EMT or
Paramedic you will be required to take a written medical and a practical test.
11. What if I haven’t graduated from my training program yet?
MESH does allow you to take the written & practical portions of the test before you graduate. If you are in
the Fire Academy or still in school for your medical certification, you will be permitted to take the written
and practical test/s prior to becoming certified. You should consult with your instructor regarding your
level of training before testing. Please review the Interest Packet for additional details.
12. What happens after I complete MESH?
After completing the testing, your personal information and test scores are placed on a master eligibility
list, and then released to the participating agencies. They are advised of the “Emergency Service Provider
Agency Selection” that you specify on the Interest Form.
13. Will I be ranked on the master list?
No, the list is created in alphabetical order. The agencies rank you based on their specific hiring criteria.
14. Is it possible to fail MESH?
No, your results will be placed on the list regardless of your scores. The participating agencies set their own
pass-fail standards.
15. Will I receive my test results?
Yes, your test results will be mailed to the address on file within thirty (30) days of the master eligibility
list release date. Your Broward County-Wide Physical Ability Card will be issued to you by the Broward
County Fire Academy after successful completion of the Physical Ability Test (BPAT).
16. How long are my test results good for?
Your results are good for a period of one (1) year from the release date of the master eligibility list
corresponding to the MESH Program that you participated in.
17. What is the refund policy for MESH?
You will only receive a refund prior to the commencement of the MESH Program that you registered for.
Should you be unable to attend, please contact the MESH Program Director @ (954) 935-5446.
18. Who administers the Broward County-Wide Physical Ability Test (BPAT)?
The test is administered by the Broward Fire Academy. You must register with the Broward Fire Academy
either in person or online @ www.bfa.edu . Registering for the BPAT does not register you for the MESH
Program and registering for the MESH does not register you for the BPAT.
Page 1 of 2
ENCLOSURE 5 MESH Program Frequently Asked Questions
19. Do I have to be Firefighter l & ll certified to register for the BPAT?
Normally, yes, unless you have completed your training and have a certificate of completion and/or you are
waiting for the State test. Please contact the Fire Academy @ (754)321-1300 to discuss this matter.
20. Is there a fee for the Broward County-Wide Physical Ability Test?
Yes, there is a fee. Please contact the Broward Fire Academy for further information. They may be reached
@ (754) 321-1300.
21. How long is the Broward County-Wide Physical Ability Card good for?
The County-Wide Physical Ability Card is good for a period of one (1) year from date of issue.
22. Is it possible to fail the County-Wide Ability test?
Yes, the test is timed.
23. If I fail the County-Wide Ability Test, may I take it again?
Yes, please contact the Broward Fire Academy to arrange for another test.
24. If I fail the County-Wide Ability Test, may I still take the other MESH tests?
Yes, you may take the other MESH tests that you registered for.
25. If I already have a Broward County-Wide Ability Card, am I required to take the County-Wide
Ability test again?
No, but you will be required to provide MESH with a copy of your card with the “Interest Form”.
26. If I have a different Ability Card (e.g. C-Pat), may I submit the card in place of the Broward Card?
No, the current MESH agencies require the Broward Card for employment.
27. What if I am a certified Fire Inspector?
Please furnish MESH with a copy of your certificate and your current state & county license.
28. Is EVOC required to take the MESH?
No, the participating agencies request this information for the proper evaluation of your hiring status.
29. Are there any other tests that I will be required to take?
Each agency has a specific hiring process. They may require you to take additional steps that include tests,
interviews, backgrounds, etc.
30. Do the agencies require any special documents?
The MESH agencies have expressed their desire to receive a current transcript of your driving record when
you apply for employment. This information is usually available through your Motor Vehicle Department.
The State of Florida provides information on how to obtain your driving record at the following web
address: www.hsmv.state.fl.us/html/dlnew.html
31. Will I need to apply to the agencies?
In most cases, if you qualify, the agencies will contact you and request that you submit an application. For
your convenience, some agencies will make applications available at the MESH testing site. Other agencies
may advertise employment opportunities via the media. Please remember to follow each agency’s specific
application procedure carefully. DO NOT submit applications unless directed to do so.
32. What if I am certified in another state?
You may participate in MESH. You will be responsible to obtain Florida certifications as required.
33. What do I do if my skill status or personal information changes after I complete MESH?
The SKILL STATUS / PERSONAL INFORMATION UPDATE FORM included with your packet allows
you to contact MESH regarding any changes.
34. Am I allowed to retest for MESH if I am already on the current list?
Yes, you may register, pay the registration fee, and retest the next time that MESH is offered. You may
wish to do this to improve your scores or to test for a new skill. You will only be required to take that test.
Your new test results are listed on a separate line below your previous results on the MESH list.
35. Does MESH offer orientations?
Yes, orientations for written and practical tests are offered prior to the testing period. Ability test
orientations may be offered by the Fire Academy. See Enclosure I for more information.
36. Does MESH offer remediation (re-tests)?
In some cases remediation may be offered to you.
37. How can I contact MESH?
If you have additional questions that have not been answered by these FAQ’s, you may need to contact
MESH. You may contact the MESH Program Director by phoning (954) 935-5446 or via email @
meshmail@bellsouth.net Please leave a brief, detailed message, which includes a contact name, best time
to call back, and a valid phone number with area code (no pagers please).
IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT call the Program Director to check on the status of your Interest Form,
request your test results, change your Skill Status and/or Personal Information, or to inquire about if and
when you might receive contacts from participating MESH Agencies.
Page 2 of 2