Firefighting Operations and Equipment Flashcards

The FDNY '10-45' radio signal indicates:

Answer: Firefighter fatality or serious injury

A 10-45 in FDNY radio codes indicates a fatality or serious injury, prompting immediate supervisory response and notifications.

When placing a ground ladder against a building for rescue, the proper climbing angle is approximately:

Answer: 75 degrees

A 75-degree climbing angle (roughly one-quarter of the ladder's working length as the base distance) provides optimal strength and stability for climbing.

Which FDNY unit is primarily responsible for forcible entry, search, and ventilation at a structural fire?

Answer: Ladder company

Ladder companies (truck companies) are responsible for forcible entry, search, rescue, ventilation, and overhaul, while engine companies handle water supply and hoselines.

A 'Class A' foam is used to:

Answer: Enhance the extinguishing effectiveness of water on ordinary combustibles

Class A foam lowers water surface tension, allowing it to penetrate deeply into ordinary combustibles like wood and hay, improving knockdown and preventing rekindling.

During positive pressure ventilation (PPV), the fan should be placed:

Answer: Outside the entry door at a distance matching the door opening

The PPV fan is positioned outside the entry door at a distance that creates a cone of air slightly larger than the door opening, pressurizing the entire structure.

FDNY regulations require SCBA be donned before entering any atmosphere with oxygen levels below:

Answer: 19.5%

OSHA and FDNY standards define oxygen-deficient atmospheres as below 19.5%, requiring respiratory protection before entry.

A 'standpipe system' in a high-rise building is best described as:

Answer: A system of pipes and outlets that brings water to each floor for firefighting

A standpipe system is a network of piping with hose connections (outlets) on each floor, providing a water source for firefighting operations in tall buildings.