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First Responder Evaluation Programs - Health and Exercise Science

First Responder Evaluation Programs Firefighter Testing

Comprehensive Cardiac Evaluations for Resilient First Responders Ensuring Firefighter Health and Safety

First responder tests their endurance skills for their testing

The Firefighter Testing program offers a robust evaluation designed to enhance the health and wellness of our brave first responders. By focusing on individualized assessments, we empower firefighters and their engine crews to identify and address potential health risks proactively. With customizable testing packages that align with departmental needs and budgets, this program stands as a commitment to fostering a healthier and more resilient firefighting community.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every firefighter returns safely after every call. Through comprehensive cardiac evaluations and a multi-step assessment process, we equip departments with the tools they need to prioritize long-term health. By participating in this program, departments affirm their dedication to the well-being of their personnel, ensuring that each hero can continue serving with strength and confidence.

Comprehensive Cardiac Evaluation

What We Do For You

Do you need help targeting your efforts in the area of health and wellness for individuals and for the department? By using what we know in this area, you can improve the overall health and wellness of your department.

Testing Packages

We offer testing for individuals and departments. We can tailor our testing components to your needs. And we will create a plan to accommodate your budget.

Our Goal

Let’s use this knowledge so that “everyone goes home” and returns for their next shift.

Available Testing Dates

Blood and Urine Collection Instructions

Our evaluations are a multi-step process. We will do our best to take you through the process as smoothly as possible.

You may have your blood and urine collected up to one month prior to your appointment. It needs to be completed before your appointment.

The University of Colorado Hospital will bill the Heart Disease Prevention Program directly.  If you receive a bill for the blood and urine collection, do not pay the bill. Contact Tiffany Lipsey immediately at tiffany.lipsey@colostate.edu.

Have your orders entered at UCH

  • Program staff will enter orders at UCH for you.
  • They will need information from you to enter the orders.
  • You may need to create an account at UCH. Program staff will let you know!

Find a Collection Site

  • Find UCH labs on our maps and directions page.
  • The Express Lab on Prospect Road is good for same-day collection.
  • You may use any collection site listed on our website.
  • You can get your blood and urine collection up to one month prior to your evaluation appointment.
  • Plan for enough time if you are getting your blood draw and urine collection before your appointment.

Fast Before Your Test

  • Fast for 12-14 hours prior to your blood collection.
  • Remember don’t eat anything before.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Take any prescribed medications.
  • Go to a UCH specimen collection site.
  • Complete your blood and urine sample.
  • AFTER your blood and urine collection, eat breakfast.
Your Department's Additional Testing Requirements

Survey Instructions

One Week Before Your Appointment

Complete Six Short Surveys

  • One week before your appointment, check your email.
  • You will get six separate emails. Each email contains a link to individualized surveys for you. Do not share these links with anyone!
  • It’s important you complete these before your appointment.
    *Please know your information is kept confidential.

Testing Day Preparation Instructions

Because our evaluation is so comprehensive, there are a lot of steps involved. Take a moment to watch the video to prep you for what will happen on your testing day.

Your Pack List

  • Please leave your bunker gear at the station.
  • T-shirt, shorts, and shoes for exercising.
  • Females: Please wear a halter top or sports bra.
  • Water bottle – because, hydration.
  • Snack for after testing.
  • We have a locker room with towels and showers for you.

Get Ready

  • No strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to your visit.
  • Make sure you eat a light, low-fat meal 2-hours prior to your arrival.
  • Please take your prescribed medications.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

  • Directions to our testing facility.
  • Park in the designated parking area in front of the HPCRL building.
  • Get a parking pass from the front desk.
  • The evaluation will take about 2.5 hours.
  • We measure your body fat.
  • You will get pulmonary function, strength, and flexibility testing.
  • You will walk and run on a treadmill wearing a mesh shirt to hold all the electrodes on.
  • We take your blood pressure – a lot.
Maps and Directions to CSU Testing