The first stage of training for candidates is the 10-week Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the CF physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding. BMQ covers the following topics: policies and regulations of the CF, CF drill, dress and deportment (the "three Ds"), basic safety, first aid, personal survival in nuclear, biological and chemical conditions, handling and firing personal weapons, cross-country navigation and personal survival in field conditions.