FREE FCTC Test Reading Comprehension Skills Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

*Passage:* 'The structural integrity of a building during a fire is a primary concern for firefighting crews. Buildings are broadly classified into five types of construction. Type I, Fire-Resistive, uses non-combustible materials like concrete and steel. Type II, Non-Combustible, also uses non-combustible materials, but with less fire resistance than Type I. Type III, Ordinary Construction, has non-combustible exterior walls but interior elements (floors, roofs) are made of wood. Type IV, Heavy Timber, uses large-dimension wood for structural members. Finally, Type V, Wood-Framed, is the most common residential construction, with nearly all components made of wood.'

According to the passage, which type of construction features non-combustible exterior walls but a combustible wooden interior?

Accepted Answer

Type III, Ordinary Construction

Answer

Type I, Fire-Resistive

Answer

Type II, Non-Combustible

Answer

Type IV, Heavy Timber

Question 2

Read the following scenario and answer the question that follows.

*Scenario:* 'A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) inspection must be performed at the start of each shift. The firefighter must first check that the cylinder has a minimum of 90% of its rated pressure. Next, all straps and buckles on the harness should be examined for wear and proper function. The facepiece must be inspected for crazing, scratches, and a proper seal. Finally, the PASS (Personal Alert Safety System) device should be manually activated to ensure it functions correctly before being reset.'

Which of the following steps is performed *after* checking the harness straps and buckles during an SCBA inspection?

Accepted Answer

Checking the facepiece for a proper seal

Answer

Verifying the cylinder pressure is at least 90%

Answer

Manually activating the PASS device

Answer

Replacing the air cylinder

Question 3

Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

*Passage:* 'The Incident Command System (ICS) provides a standardized on-scene management structure. A key principle of ICS is Unity of Command, which means that every individual reports to only one supervisor. Another principle is Span of Control, which suggests that any single supervisor should be responsible for a manageable number of subordinates, typically between three and seven. This prevents supervisors from becoming overwhelmed and ensures effective communication and accountability.'

What is the main purpose of the 'Span of Control' principle described in the passage?

Accepted Answer

To maintain a manageable and effective number of subordinates for a supervisor

Answer

To ensure every firefighter has multiple supervisors

Answer

To standardize the equipment used at an incident

Answer

To guarantee that all personnel report for duty at the same time

Question 4

Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

*Passage:* 'Fire extinguishers are classified based on the type of fire they are designed to extinguish. Class A extinguishers are for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth. Class B extinguishers are for flammable liquids such as grease, gasoline, and oil. Class C extinguishers are for fires involving energized electrical equipment. Class D extinguishers are used on combustible metals. A multi-purpose dry chemical extinguisher, rated ABC, can handle the first three classes.'

A fire has started in a deep fryer at a restaurant. Based on the passage, which class of fire extinguisher is most appropriate to use?

Accepted Answer

Class B

Answer

Class A

Answer

Class C

Answer

Class D

Question 5

Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

*Passage:* 'Ventilation is a critical fireground tactic used to control the flow of heat and smoke. Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) involves using a high-powered fan to force fresh air into a structure, pushing heat and smoke out through an exhaust opening. This improves visibility for firefighters and lowers temperatures. For PPV to be effective, the exhaust opening must be of adequate size and in the correct location, and the entry point for the fan must be sealed to prevent air from recirculating back to the fan.'

Which of the following is essential for Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) to work effectively?

Accepted Answer

Creating a proper exhaust opening and sealing the entry point

Answer

Opening every window and door in the structure

Answer

Using multiple fans at the same entry point

Answer

Spraying water into the fan's airflow

Question 6

Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

*Passage:* 'When performing a search and rescue operation in a smoke-filled environment, firefighters often use a technique called 'right-hand' or 'left-hand' search. A firefighter or team will enter a room and place a hand (either right or left) on a wall. They then follow that wall all the way around the room, which ensures the entire perimeter is searched and prevents them from getting lost. This systematic approach is crucial for maintaining orientation and ensuring a thorough search.'

The primary reason for using a 'right-hand' or 'left-hand' search technique is to:

Accepted Answer

Ensure a systematic search and maintain orientation

Answer

Move through the building as quickly as possible

Answer

Locate the fire's point of origin

Answer

Allow firefighters to carry equipment with their free hand