Test Overview
Boulder Rural Fire's Physical Ability Test (P.A.T.) consists of a structural firefighting component followed by a wildland component. The structural component must be completed in less than 4 minutes and 30 seconds, and the wildland component must be completed in less than 3 minutes and 50 seconds. A 4 minute rest period is provided between the two components.
Each component is designed to assess cardiovascular, muscular strength, and endurance capability while performing job-related tasks. Each component of the test is timed. If at any time during the test the time limit is exceeded, the candidate or member will be asked to stop.
Everyone who attempts the P.A.T. will be fitted with the necessary equipment. For the structural section, a bunker coat, fire gloves, a fire helmet and a SCBA pack will be provided. For the wildland section a wildland helmet, wildland shirt, and a 45-pound weight pack will be provided. Members and candidates should wear comfortable sweats and tennis shoes and are not permitted to wear shorts. A proctor will accompany each person attempting the P.A.T.