Question about background checks/Polygraphs???

[smoke_eater13]

I need some help please, I took my background check packet to the fire marshal yesterday, which is kinda like a "pre-polygraph" review, and there were a couple of questions on there which i may have elaborated on a little more than I should have. For example:

How many times within the last year have you driven intoxicated?

Now to me, intoxicated means more like being "wasted".. but when i asked the marshal to explain, he stated, "anything that would cause me to fail a breathalyzer"...so I told him that ive had a couple of beers at restaurants, family parties, etc..never enough where I wasnt completely competent and able to drive...but i still drove. So i stated maybe about 15 times that ive done that.
In your opinion, did i set myself up for failure by saying that to him?
Thanks a lot!!

[fire49]

Would say maybe slightly

But you were honest, and helpfully you have no other baggage

so

Did you drive 15 times after two or more drinks ???

Highly recommend for numerous reasons not to drink and drive anymore

[smoke_eater13]

No, i usually just have 1 beer when I go out to dinner but i just assumed that 2 beers would cause me to fail a breathalyzer, and to be honest, i have driven maybe once or twice after having maybe 3 beers but Im still competent enough to drive. I usually only drink socially and amongst family, not really a club or bar guy.

[JayDudley]

The main thing is to remember to be truthful and answer all questions. If you hold back and we find out your done. We've all done stupid things during our lifetime and we as Background Investigators know that. I've always said "You only get one chance at a first impression" so don't ruin it by lying.

[smoke_eater13]

Yes, thats correct and that is exactly what I was trying to do..not hold anything back, I really care about my chances of becoming a firefighter and wouldn't want to be dishonest or disloyal to something that is my ultimate dream career. I appreciate your feedback, thank you.

[fire49]

well if you make it far enough into the process, decide what answer you are going to give and stick with it!!

Once again if you drink even one beer do not drive, and once again for many reasons.

if you do not make it thorugh the process, take this as a learning moment.

we have a similar question on our apps.

[JayDudley]

Fire49.....There is only one answer that you need to stick to...that's the right answer. If you start answering questions how you think they are looking for you'll never remember which one you gave. That's why I always preach......."Give the truthful answers" and you'll never go wrong.

[fire49]

I agree tell the truth

He just needs to decide what that is in regards to the question

He had at least two answers and the first one did not sound the greatest
But in clarifying it does not sound as bad as he first expressed it