(WNY News Now) – Jamestown, NY – The City of Jamestown Fire Department, in collaboration with Northwest Arena and other regional fire departments, extends an open invitation to participate in the Firefighter Candidate Physical Ability Test (CAT) Screening Event on May 4th and 5th, offering individuals an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for firefighting roles.

The City of Jamestown Fire Department, alongside Northwest Arena, City of Dunkirk Fire Department, Village of Fredonia Fire Department, and Chautauqua County Volunteer Fire Departments, is hosting a Firefighter Candidate Physical Ability Test (CAT) Screening Event on May 4th and 5th at Northwest Arena in Jamestown, New York.

This high-intensity screening comprises eight separate event stations designed to assess candidates’ physical capabilities and endurance, as well as mental determination and self-drive. Developed by fire service professionals, the CAT aims to identify potential firefighter candidates capable of performing essential tasks encountered in various fire scenes. Representatives from participating fire departments will be present to engage with individuals interested in pursuing firefighting, whether through volunteer or paid service.

The screening event is open to individuals aged 17 and above, with participants under 18 requiring written permission and a waiver of liability signed by a parent or guardian. Those currently ranked on the March 2024 Chautauqua County Civil Service list of eligible candidates will receive preference for prescheduled time slots. Prospective participants must complete a waiver of liability with the City of Jamestown/Northwest Arena before the screening, with waiver forms available at the event venue. Individuals with medical or physical limitations necessitating a medical clearance letter from a physician will not be permitted to attend.

Pre-registration for the screening event is strongly encouraged to minimize wait times. Participants can register by contacting the Jamestown Fire Department Headquarters during business hours throughout April. However, same-day registration is acceptable. Attendees must wear long pants and appropriate nonslip footwear, with head protection, gloves, and weighted vests provided.

To prepare for the screening, participants are advised to review the PAT Orientation Guide available on the City of Jamestown website and watch relevant “Firefighter (PAT)” videos on YouTube. It’s crucial to arrive well-rested, hydrated, and prepared for the rigorous 10 to 12-minute physical test. Alcohol consumption prior to the event is discouraged. EMS and CAT evaluators will monitor participants’ overall fitness before and after the screening, with the authority to reject or terminate participation based on safety concerns or failure to meet requirements.

Spectators and media are welcome, with parking available near the venue without meter use during weekends. Spectators can access Rink B’s viewing grandstand while participants proceed to the event floor. Prescheduled participants should arrive 30 minutes before their assigned time slot for orientation and monitoring.

The Firefighter Candidate Physical Ability Test (CAT) Screening Event offers aspiring firefighters an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for the challenging demands of firefighting, fostering collaboration between regional fire departments and prospective candidates.