There were many applications to join the MFB and there were about 99% rejections. A stern standard of physical fitness was laid down by the LCC and the Brigade. Candidates could not be younger than 19 nor older than 31, although some flexibility was given to ex-servicemen. Potential recruits to the MFB had to pass a strength test. This involved raising a wheeled escape ladder into the vertical via a block and tackle arrangement. The picture shows a candidate (on the top of the ladder) performing his strength test. The pull required a direct force of 244 pounds and was not an easy task.