Fire Initial Hire PAT

FIREFIGHTER- CITY & TOWN

The Physical Ability Test (PAT) is designed to assess a candidate's capacity to perform the tasks ordinarily performed by a firefighter while on the job.  This is accomplished by requiring the candidate to perform a series of events that both simulate firefighting activities and depend on the physical abilities required to perform the firefighter’s job.  These abilities include cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, muscular endurance and flexibility.

Firefighters often perform risky and physically demanding duties under emergency condiditons. Firefighters work under supervision, often as a member of a team, to respond to fires and other emergencies. Firefighter duties may include, for example: connecting, pulling, and operating hose lines; operating a pump; positioning and climbing ladders; emergency rescue and lifesaving; ventilating smoke filled areas; using and maintaining tolls and equipment; training; and fire station activities. For a more detailed listing of duties, see the essential functions of a Massachusetts Firefighter, available on our website.

Medical Requirement: At the time of request for the PAT a Candidate must have provided the communitiy in question with pages 1 & 6 of of the completed Initial-Hire Medical Standards Form.

Preparation information can be found in the Fire PAT Preparation Guide and inPhysical Ability Test (PAT) Firefighter & Police Officer Videos.