Free CERT Fire Safety & Utility Controls Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the correct class of fire extinguisher for electrical fires?

Class A
Class B
Class C (Correct answer)
Class D

Correct answer: Class C

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the types of fires they are designed to extinguish. Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment. Using water (Class A) on electrical fires is extremely dangerous due to the risk of electrocution, making Class C extinguishers, which use non-conductive agents, the correct and safest choice.

Question 2: Why should you avoid using water on a grease fire?

It cools too slowly
It creates steam
It spreads the fire (Correct answer)
It smells bad

Correct answer: It spreads the fire

Grease fires are fueled by flammable oils and fats. Pouring water onto a grease fire causes the water to sink below the oil, rapidly heat up, and turn into steam. This steam then forcefully displaces and splatters the burning grease, spreading the fire and potentially causing severe burns or further property damage.

Question 3: What utility should be turned off if you smell gas?

Electricity
Water
Gas (Correct answer)
Cable

Correct answer: Gas

If you smell gas, it indicates a potential gas leak, which is extremely dangerous due to the risk of explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning. The immediate and safest action is to turn off the gas supply at the main shut-off valve to prevent further leakage. This minimizes the hazard until professionals can assess and repair the leak.

Question 4: What is the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher?

Pump, Aim, Squirt, Stop
Push, Angle, Spray, Sweep
Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep (Correct answer)
Punch, Aim, Seal, Spray

Correct answer: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

The PASS method is a widely taught acronym for the proper use of a fire extinguisher. 'Pull' the pin, 'Aim' the nozzle at the base of the fire, 'Squeeze' the handle to release the agent, and 'Sweep' the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire. Following these steps maximizes the extinguisher's effectiveness in putting out a small fire.

Question 5: When should you evacuate instead of fighting a fire?

If fire is smaller than a trash can
If the fire is in the oven
If fire blocks your escape route (Correct answer)
If there's no one around

Correct answer: If fire blocks your escape route

Personal safety is paramount in any fire situation. If a fire has grown to the point where it blocks your primary escape route, attempting to fight it becomes too dangerous. At this point, the priority shifts to finding an alternative escape path and evacuating immediately to ensure your survival, leaving fire suppression to trained professionals.

Question 6: Why should you shut off electrical power after a disaster?

To prevent overheating
To avoid tripping
To reduce electricity bills
To avoid electrocution (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To avoid electrocution

After a disaster, electrical systems can be severely damaged, leading to exposed wires, damaged appliances, or flooded areas. Shutting off electrical power at the main breaker prevents the risk of electrocution from contact with live wires or water, safeguarding individuals and preventing further damage or fires.

Question 7: What is the best action if you see downed power lines?

Touch them carefully
Report and stay away (Correct answer)
Move them using wood
Ignore and continue walking

Correct answer: Report and stay away

Downed power lines are extremely dangerous as they can still be energized and carry lethal amounts of electricity. Touching them or even approaching them can result in severe injury or death. The safest action is to maintain a significant distance, warn others, and immediately report the hazard to emergency services or the utility company.

Question 8: How often should smoke alarms be tested?

Once per year
Every 6 months
Once a month (Correct answer)
Every 3 years

Correct answer: Once a month

Smoke alarms are vital for early fire detection, providing crucial time for evacuation. To ensure they are always in proper working order, it is recommended to test them monthly by pressing the test button. This regular check verifies that the batteries and alarm mechanism are functional, maintaining a high level of safety.

Question 9: What is the safest way to shut off a gas meter?

Use your hand
Use a match
Turn valve with wrench (Correct answer)
Tap valve gently

Correct answer: Turn valve with wrench

Gas meters typically have a main shut-off valve that needs to be turned a quarter turn to stop the flow of gas. This valve is often stiff or requires a specific tool, like a wrench, to operate safely and effectively. Using a wrench prevents damage to the valve and ensures the gas supply is completely shut off in an emergency.

Free CERT Fire Safety & Utility Controls Questions and Answers

What is the correct class of fire extinguisher for electrical fires?