Frequently Asked Questions
About FireCred Proficiency Tests

Proficiency testing provides a means for an organization to evaluate the skills and abilities of their fire investigators and experts. The proficiency test provides an assessment that shows whether fire investigators and experts are able to conduct accurate and sufficient investigations. Proficiency tests are designed to be taken on a single occasion, typically once a year and online, with materials provided by FireCred.

Most participants should be able to meet the qualifications of fire investigator as set forth in the current edition of NFPA 1033, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator.

Participants will use the FireCred online platform to register for the test and submit any required personal information, payment information, and acknowledgement of the proficiency testing rules. Upon registering for the proficiency test, participants will be given detailed and specific instructions. Please note that participants are prohibited from taking previously taken (and “Passed”) FireCred proficiency tests.

Participants will be evaluated on their understanding of a particular concept, methodology, or core investigative function. The topics are all derived from recommended methodologies found in NFPA 921 and other relevant texts. FireCred will provide materials, typically photographs or guided tours through an iGUIDE product, and the participant will then be asked a series of questions. These questions will have an assigned point value. This point value may vary depending on the nature and complexity of the question. Participants will either receive full credit for answering the question correctly, or no credit for answering it incorrectly (there is no partial credit). A “Pass” results requires a score of 70 points or higher.

Upon opening the proficiency test module, participants have up to two (2) hours to complete the test. IMPORTANT – Please note that the test, once started, cannot be paused.

Participants are to treat proficiency testing items in the same manner as data routinely procured during actual investigations. Participants may print FireCred proficiency test items but are prohibited from distributing these materials during and/or following the test. FireCred requests that any materials printed out during the proficiency test be destroyed in an appropriate manner immediately following the completion of the proficiency test.

Participants are prohibited from colluding with one another in preparing for or during the proficiency test. This proficiency test is designed to be taken solely by the participant and should not be taken with the assistance or participation of any other individuals. In addition, because of the individual nature of proficiency testing, participants may not discuss or reveal specific details about the test exhibits, data, or questions during the test and/or after they have completed the test. FireCred encourages practitioners to follow their organizations' code of ethics, maintain professionalism, and ensure the integrity of the proficiency test.

The results of the test, in the form of a FireCred report with scores, will be provided to the participant within 24 hours of the completion of the test. These scores are provided to the participant, and a “Pass” or “Non-Pass” result is provided. A FireCred evaluator may also provide expert commentary to the participant regarding the test results. Should the participant earn a “Non-Pass” result, instructions will be provided with the report as to how to register for a second test and another attempt. Participants will have two opportunities to take and pass a given proficiency test.

All information created during the performance of a proficiency test will be collected by FireCred and stored in a secure manner. Results of the proficiency test will be held in confidentiality and will only be provided by FireCred to the participant. Participants may request from FireCred that the test results be shared with others (for example, their supervisor).

For any questions, concerns, or complaints regarding this proficiency test, please contact us at info@firecred.com. In addition, FireCred’s complaint and appeals policies can be found online at the FireCred website.