CPS Firefighter Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: You smell natural gas while investigating an odor complaint inside a home. What should you do first?

Turn on the lights to see better
Search for the source with a flashlight near outlets
Use the home's phone to call dispatch
Avoid creating sparks, evacuate occupants, and ventilate (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Avoid creating sparks, evacuate occupants, and ventilate

Eliminating ignition sources and evacuating prevents a gas explosion.

Question 2: A senior firefighter tells you to take a shortcut that violates a safety SOP. What is the best action?

Decline and follow the SOP, explaining your reason (Correct answer)
Do it but document it later
Follow it because of their rank
Report them before doing anything

Correct answer: Decline and follow the SOP, explaining your reason

Safety procedures must be followed regardless of who suggests bypassing them.

Question 3: A firefighter pulls a rope over a single fixed pulley to raise a 200 lb object. Ignoring friction, the effort force required is:

400 lb
200 lb (Correct answer)
50 lb
100 lb

Correct answer: 200 lb

A single fixed pulley only changes the direction of force; it does not provide mechanical advantage, so the effort equals the load.

Question 4: Listen: 'Engine 7 responds to a vehicle accident on Route 9 northbound near exit 14.' In which direction is the accident located?

Southbound
Eastbound
Northbound (Correct answer)
Westbound

Correct answer: Northbound

The accident is on Route 9 northbound.

Question 5: Your officer is injured and unable to lead mid-incident. As the next most experienced member, you should:

Assume leadership, account for the crew, and notify command (Correct answer)
Continue the original plan without telling anyone
Wait for someone from another company to take over
Pull the whole crew out and stop operations

Correct answer: Assume leadership, account for the crew, and notify command

Stepping up, accounting for personnel, and informing command maintains safe continuity of command.

Question 6: Read the following paragraph and answer the question. 'Proper maintenance of a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is paramount for firefighter safety. Daily checks should include inspecting the harness and facepiece for any signs of wear or damage, ensuring the cylinder is filled to the appropriate pressure, and verifying that the low-pressure alarm functions correctly. Any identified deficiencies must be reported immediately, and the unit must be taken out of service until it can be repaired by a certified technician. Failure to do so could lead to catastrophic equipment failure in a critical situation.' Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the passage as a required daily check for an SCBA?

Testing the low-pressure alarm.
Calibrating the air-quality sensor. (Correct answer)
Verifying the cylinder's pressure level.
Checking the harness and facepiece for damage.

Correct answer: Calibrating the air-quality sensor.

The passage lists three specific daily checks: inspecting the harness and facepiece, ensuring the cylinder is full, and verifying the low-pressure alarm. Calibrating an air-quality sensor is not mentioned in the text.

Question 7: A memo reads: 'Hydrants must be inspected unless they were inspected within the past year.' A hydrant was last inspected 14 months ago. What is required?

It must be inspected (Correct answer)
It must be replaced
It is exempt this year
No action is needed

Correct answer: It must be inspected

Since 14 months exceeds one year, the exemption does not apply and inspection is required.

Question 8: What primary warning sign indicates a backdraft may be imminent when approaching a structure?

Heavy black smoke pouring from the roof
Flames visible in all windows
Smoke-stained windows, smoke puffing in and out of openings, and little or no visible flame (Correct answer)
Sprinkler heads activating on the exterior

Correct answer: Smoke-stained windows, smoke puffing in and out of openings, and little or no visible flame

Backdraft warning signs include smoke-stained windows, smoke puffing rhythmically from openings (breathing), and little visible flame indicating an oxygen-starved fire.

Question 9: Two ropes support a hanging load at equal angles. If the angle each rope makes with vertical increases, the tension in each rope does what?

Decreases
Stays the same
Drops to zero
Increases (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Increases

Spreading the ropes to wider angles increases the tension each must carry to support the same load.

Question 10: A briefing states three engines, two ladder trucks, and one ambulance were dispatched. How many total apparatus responded?

Six (Correct answer)
Four
Seven
Five

Correct answer: Six

Three plus two plus one equals six apparatus.

Question 11: A fire engine's water tank has a capacity of 500 gallons. Knowing that water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds per gallon, what is the total weight of the water when the tank is full?

4,000 pounds
4,255 pounds
4,170 pounds (Correct answer)
3,870 pounds

Correct answer: 4,170 pounds

To find the total weight, multiply the volume of water in gallons by the weight per gallon. Calculation: 500 gallons * 8.34 pounds/gallon = 4,170 pounds.

Question 12: A firefighter needs to carry a 28-foot extension ladder alone. To maintain balance and stability with the least amount of effort, the firefighter should position their shoulder at what point on the ladder?

At the ladder's marked center point or balance point. (Correct answer)
Approximately one-third of the way from the base.
As close to the tip of the ladder as possible.
Exactly at the halfway mark of the first section.

Correct answer: At the ladder's marked center point or balance point.

To balance an object for a single-person carry, it must be supported at its center of gravity. This is the point where the object's weight is evenly distributed on all sides. Carrying the ladder at this balance point prevents it from tipping forward or backward, allowing for a more stable and less strenuous carry.

Question 13: When two pulleys are connected by a belt and one is larger, the larger pulley does what compared to the smaller?

Turns faster
Turns slower (Correct answer)
Turns at the same speed
Turns backward

Correct answer: Turns slower

A larger driven pulley rotates more slowly than a smaller one connected by the same belt.

Question 14: A first-class lever has the fulcrum located where?

Outside both the effort and load
At the load end
Between the effort and the load (Correct answer)
At the effort end

Correct answer: Between the effort and the load

In a first-class lever, like a seesaw, the fulcrum sits between the effort and the load.

Question 15: A ladder must be raised to a window that is 24 feet above the ground. To be placed at the proper angle, the base of the ladder should be 7 feet away from the building. What is the minimum length the ladder must be to reach the window?

23 feet
31 feet
25 feet (Correct answer)
28 feet

Correct answer: 25 feet

This problem forms a right triangle and can be solved using the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²). The height (24 feet) and the distance from the building (7 feet) are the legs. So, 24² + 7² = c². This becomes 576 + 49 = c², which equals 625. The square root of 625 is 25. Therefore, the ladder must be at least 25 feet long.

Question 16: While responding, you realize the address dispatched seems incorrect based on the smoke you see. What should you do?

Drive to the smoke without telling anyone
Notify dispatch and the officer of the discrepancy and confirm the correct location (Correct answer)
Continue to the original address regardless
Stop and wait for clarification

Correct answer: Notify dispatch and the officer of the discrepancy and confirm the correct location

Communicating the discrepancy ensures resources are directed accurately and quickly.

Question 17: Read the following: 'Backdraft occurs when a smoldering fire in an oxygen-depleted space suddenly receives fresh air. The result is a rapid combustion explosion. Warning signs include smoke puffing from seams, discolored windows, and silence within the structure.' Which action is most appropriate upon observing these warning signs?

Ignore the signs if no visible flames are present.
Force entry immediately to suppress the fire before backdraft occurs.
Ventilate the roof before making entry to reduce the backdraft risk. (Correct answer)
Open the front door to allow gradual air introduction.

Correct answer: Ventilate the roof before making entry to reduce the backdraft risk.

Controlled vertical ventilation before entry releases built-up heat and gases, reducing the risk of a backdraft explosion.

Question 18: Supervisor: 'Maintain radio silence except for emergencies.' When may you use the radio?

Only on command channel
Never
Only for emergencies (Correct answer)
At any time

Correct answer: Only for emergencies

Radio use is permitted only for emergencies.

Question 19: A fire department memorandum states: 'Effective immediately, all personnel must complete the annual hazardous materials refresher course by April 30th. Failure to comply will result in the individual being placed on administrative duty until the training is completed. It is the responsibility of each Company Officer to ensure all members of their crew are registered. Registration must be done via the online portal, and any scheduling conflicts must be reported to the Training Division Chief at least two weeks prior to the scheduled class.' Based on this memorandum, which of the following statements is correct?

Firefighters must report scheduling conflicts directly to their Company Officer.
A firefighter who misses the April 30th deadline will be suspended without pay.
Completing the hazardous materials course is a mandatory annual requirement. (Correct answer)
The Training Division Chief is responsible for registering all personnel for the course.

Correct answer: Completing the hazardous materials course is a mandatory annual requirement.

The first sentence clearly states that personnel must complete the 'annual hazardous materials refresher course,' indicating it is a yearly requirement. The other options are incorrect: scheduling conflicts go to the Training Division Chief, Company Officers ensure registration (but don't do it themselves), and the penalty is administrative duty, not suspension without pay.

Question 20: What type of heat transfer occurs when heat moves through direct contact within a solid material?

Radiation
Conduction (Correct answer)
Combustion
Convection

Correct answer: Conduction

Conduction is the transfer of heat through direct molecular contact within or between solid materials.

Question 21: A diagram shows a building with an arrow labeled 'Wind Direction' pointing from left to right. Where should the incident commander ideally position the command post?

On the left side of the structure (windward side)
At the point where wind direction changes
Downwind and behind the structure
Directly in front of the building (upwind side) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Directly in front of the building (upwind side)

The command post should be positioned upwind (on the side the wind is coming from) to avoid smoke, heat, and hazardous gases being carried toward it.

Question 22: In a sealed container, if the temperature of a trapped gas rises while volume stays fixed, the pressure will?

Stay the same
Become a vacuum
Decrease
Increase (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Increase

At constant volume, heating a gas raises its pressure as the molecules move faster and strike the walls harder.

Question 23: After a difficult call, your crew gathers for a debrief. Your most valuable contribution is to:

Share honest observations, including your own mistakes, constructively (Correct answer)
Only praise what went well
Blame others for what went wrong
Stay silent to avoid criticism

Correct answer: Share honest observations, including your own mistakes, constructively

Honest, constructive debriefing—including owning your errors—drives team learning and improvement.

Question 24: A firefighter is reviewing a building's pre-plan floor diagram. The diagram shows a square symbol with the letters 'FACP' located just inside the main entrance on the first floor. What does this symbol most likely represent?

Fire Department Connection
Final Assembly Check Point
Forward Air Command Post
Fire Alarm Control Panel (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Fire Alarm Control Panel

In standardized fire safety diagrams, 'FACP' is the common abbreviation for the Fire Alarm Control Panel. This is the central hub for the building's fire alarm system.

Question 25: A senior firefighter on your crew consistently ignores standard operating procedures. The BEST course of action is to:

Speak privately with the firefighter first, then escalate to a supervisor if the behavior continues (Correct answer)
Document every deviation and submit a formal complaint immediately
Say nothing to avoid damaging the working relationship
Adopt the same behavior to fit in with the crew

Correct answer: Speak privately with the firefighter first, then escalate to a supervisor if the behavior continues

Addressing the issue directly and privately first is respectful and often resolves the problem before formal escalation is needed.

Question 26: A firefighter applies 50 lbs of force to a wheel with a 12-inch radius attached to an axle with a 3-inch radius. What force is exerted at the axle?

12.5 lbs
200 lbs (Correct answer)
50 lbs
150 lbs

Correct answer: 200 lbs

Mechanical advantage of wheel and axle = wheel radius ÷ axle radius = 12 ÷ 3 = 4, so output force = 50 × 4 = 200 lbs.

Question 27: Briefing: 'All exits are clear except the north door.' Which exit should be avoided?

South door
West door
East door
North door (Correct answer)

Correct answer: North door

The north door is the exception, so it should be avoided.

Question 28: During the incipient (early) stage of a fire, what is the primary characteristic?

All combustibles in the compartment are burning
Heat, smoke, and flame production are minimal and the fire is still small (Correct answer)
Structural collapse becomes imminent
Fully developed flames engulf the room

Correct answer: Heat, smoke, and flame production are minimal and the fire is still small

The incipient stage is the earliest phase where the fire is small, heat output is low, and there is limited smoke production — the best stage for suppression.

Question 29: During a size-up, a firefighter notices smoke coming from windows on the second and fourth floors. How many floors show visible smoke?

4
1
2 (Correct answer)
3

Correct answer: 2

Smoke was observed on two separate floors: the second floor and the fourth floor.

Question 30: Which of these would float in water?

A brick
A solid steel block
A sealed empty plastic bottle (Correct answer)
A lead weight

Correct answer: A sealed empty plastic bottle

A sealed empty bottle is less dense than water because of the trapped air, so it floats.

Question 31: While checking equipment at shift change, you find a tool the previous crew logged as serviceable is actually damaged. You should:

Tag it out of service and report it through proper channels (Correct answer)
Use it anyway since it was logged as good
Quietly fix it yourself without telling anyone
Leave it for the next crew to discover

Correct answer: Tag it out of service and report it through proper channels

Damaged equipment must be tagged out and reported so it can be repaired and accurately tracked.

Question 32: Friction between two surfaces generally does what to motion?

Has no effect
Opposes motion (Correct answer)
Speeds up motion
Reverses direction

Correct answer: Opposes motion

Friction is a resistive force that always opposes the relative motion of surfaces.

Question 33: You witness a coworker take department supplies for personal use. What is the appropriate action?

Report the theft through proper channels (Correct answer)
Confront them and demand repayment
Take some supplies yourself
Say nothing to avoid conflict

Correct answer: Report the theft through proper channels

Reporting theft through proper channels upholds integrity and accountability.

Question 34: Every engine company responded before the ladder company. The ladder company arrived at 3:10. What can be inferred about the engine company?

It arrived before 3:10 (Correct answer)
It did not respond
It arrived after 3:10
It arrived at 3:10

Correct answer: It arrived before 3:10

Responding 'before' the ladder company means arriving earlier than 3:10.

Question 35: A bystander at a scene begins recording video and interfering with the hose line. How should you respond?

Stop work until they leave
Calmly ask them to step back and let law enforcement manage the crowd (Correct answer)
Ignore them and keep working
Confront the bystander aggressively

Correct answer: Calmly ask them to step back and let law enforcement manage the crowd

Maintaining a professional demeanor and using law enforcement for crowd control keeps the scene safe.

Question 36: A fire station budget allocates 35% of $80,000 to equipment. How much is allocated to equipment?

$30,000
$26,000
$28,000 (Correct answer)
$24,000

Correct answer: $28,000

35% of $80,000 = 0.35 × 80,000 = $28,000.

Question 37: Two identical fire hoses carry water at the same velocity. Hose A is coiled flat with no kinks; Hose B has a sharp 90-degree kink. Compared to Hose A, Hose B will have:

Higher flow rate due to increased pressure
Lower flow rate due to increased resistance at the kink (Correct answer)
Higher flow rate because the kink creates turbulence that pushes water
The same flow rate because velocity is equal

Correct answer: Lower flow rate due to increased resistance at the kink

A kink sharply increases flow resistance, reducing the effective cross-sectional area and causing a significant drop in flow rate.

Question 38: What does 'auto-ignition temperature' mean for a fuel?

The minimum temperature at which a fuel will spontaneously ignite without an external ignition source (Correct answer)
The temperature at which fuel reaches its flashpoint
The temperature at which water will extinguish the fuel
The temperature at which a fuel begins producing flammable vapors

Correct answer: The minimum temperature at which a fuel will spontaneously ignite without an external ignition source

Auto-ignition temperature is the minimum temperature at which a substance will spontaneously ignite in normal atmosphere without an external spark or flame.

Question 39: Two gears mesh together. The driver gear has 10 teeth and the driven gear has 30 teeth. If the driver turns at 60 RPM, how fast does the driven gear turn?

60 RPM
90 RPM
20 RPM (Correct answer)
180 RPM

Correct answer: 20 RPM

A larger driven gear (30 teeth vs 10) turns three times slower: 60 ÷ 3 = 20 RPM.

Question 40: Briefing: 'Wind is from the west, pushing fire toward the east buildings.' Which buildings are threatened?

All buildings equally
North buildings
East buildings (Correct answer)
West buildings

Correct answer: East buildings

Wind from the west drives the fire eastward, threatening the east buildings.

Question 41: You notice a fellow firefighter showing signs of heat exhaustion during overhaul. What is the best first action?

Tell them to push through the shift
Wait to see if symptoms worsen
Give them your water and continue working
Report it to the officer and get them to rehab/medical (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Report it to the officer and get them to rehab/medical

Recognizing and reporting medical distress promptly protects crew health and safety.

Question 42: A pump fills a 600-gallon tank in 15 minutes. How many gallons per minute does it pump?

50
35
45
40 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 40

600 divided by 15 equals 40 gallons per minute.

Question 43: Order: 'Use the rear stairwell unless it is blocked, then use the front.' If the rear is blocked, which stairwell is used?

Both at once
Neither
Rear stairwell
Front stairwell (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Front stairwell

When the rear is blocked, the instruction directs use of the front.

Question 44: Your fire station is located at grid coordinate D4 on a city map. A call is dispatched to a location at grid coordinate F2. The map legend indicates that letters (A, B, C...) run west to east, and numbers (1, 2, 3...) run north to south. Which direction of travel is the most direct route from the station to the incident?

North and West
South and East
South and West
North and East (Correct answer)

Correct answer: North and East

To move from coordinate D to F, one must travel two grid squares to the east. To move from coordinate 4 to 2, one must travel two grid squares to the north. Therefore, the most direct route is North and East.

Question 45: What is the fourth element added to expand the fire triangle into the fire tetrahedron?

Uninhibited chain reaction (Correct answer)
Ignition source
Carbon dioxide
Pressure

Correct answer: Uninhibited chain reaction

The fire tetrahedron adds the uninhibited chemical chain reaction as a fourth element, recognizing combustion as a self-sustaining chemical process.

Question 46: A report reads: 'Lieutenant Garcia ordered crews to use a 2.5-inch handline and evacuate the building before entering.' What size handline was ordered?

1.75-inch
2.5-inch (Correct answer)
1.5-inch
2-inch

Correct answer: 2.5-inch

Lieutenant Garcia specifically ordered crews to use a 2.5-inch handline according to the report.

Question 47: What is backdraft?

Flame spread driven by wind currents
Smoke traveling back through an exhaust duct
A fire that burns downward through flooring
An explosion caused by the sudden introduction of oxygen into an oxygen-depleted, superheated environment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: An explosion caused by the sudden introduction of oxygen into an oxygen-depleted, superheated environment

Backdraft occurs when fresh oxygen enters a hot, oxygen-starved compartment, causing rapid ignition of accumulated unburned gases and a powerful explosion.

Question 48: A firefighter is reviewing a pre-plan diagram for a warehouse. The main entrance is on the South wall ('Alpha' side). Inside, a hallway extends directly North. The Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) is on the East wall, 10 feet North of the entrance. The sprinkler riser room is shown as the first door on the West wall of this main hallway. The gas meter shut-off is located on the exterior of the building at the Northwest corner. To shut down the building's sprinkler system, which direction should the firefighter turn from the main hallway?

East
North
West (Correct answer)
South

Correct answer: West

The diagram description explicitly states the sprinkler riser room is the first door on the West wall of the main hallway. Therefore, the firefighter must turn West from the hallway to access the room containing the sprinkler controls.

Question 49: A ladder extends 35 feet and is placed 7 feet from the base of a building. What is the ratio of the ladder's height reach to its base distance?

3:1
5:1 (Correct answer)
6:1
4:1

Correct answer: 5:1

35 ÷ 7 = 5, so the ratio is 5:1.

Question 50: Which of these is an example of a third-class lever?

A nail puller
A seesaw
A wheelbarrow
A pair of tweezers (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A pair of tweezers

Tweezers apply effort between the fulcrum and load, defining a third-class lever.

Question 51: A firefighter is using a Halligan bar to pry open an inward-swinging door. To generate the maximum amount of force on the door lock, where should the firefighter apply effort to the bar?

At the exact midpoint of the bar.
In a rocking motion near the head of the tool.
As close to the door jamb as possible.
As far from the door as possible on the handle. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: As far from the door as possible on the handle.

A Halligan bar is a class 1 lever. To maximize the mechanical advantage, the effort must be applied at the point farthest from the fulcrum (where the tool pivots on the door frame). Applying force at the end of the handle maximizes this distance and thus the output force.

Question 52: During a long incident, you notice your own fatigue affecting your judgment. You should:

Push through silently to avoid looking weak
Take an unannounced break wherever you are
Report to rehab and inform your officer of your condition (Correct answer)
Switch to an easier task without telling anyone

Correct answer: Report to rehab and inform your officer of your condition

Rehabilitation and honest self-reporting prevent fatigue-related injuries and errors.

Question 53: You find a downed power line across a vehicle with occupants at an MVA. What should you tell the occupants?

Push the line away with a tool
Exit the vehicle quickly
Climb out the window
Stay inside the vehicle until the power is confirmed off (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Stay inside the vehicle until the power is confirmed off

Occupants are safest remaining inside the vehicle until utility crews de-energize the line.

Question 54: A firefighter's SCBA cylinder contains 1,800 liters of air. The average consumption rate during heavy exertion is 80 liters per minute. After working for 12 minutes at this rate, how many liters of air will remain in the cylinder?

1,040 liters
960 liters
1,200 liters
840 liters (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 840 liters

First, calculate the total air consumed: 80 liters/minute * 12 minutes = 960 liters. Then, subtract the consumed air from the cylinder's total capacity: 1,800 liters - 960 liters = 840 liters remaining.

Question 55: A building has 6 stories, each story measuring 10 feet in height. What is the total height of the building in feet?

60 feet (Correct answer)
65 feet
55 feet
50 feet

Correct answer: 60 feet

Multiply the number of stories by the height per story: 6 × 10 = 60 feet.

Question 56: A diagram shows 'Class A,' 'Class B,' and 'Class C' standpipe systems in a high-rise building. Which class requires the fire department to supply water pressure?

Class C only
Class A only
Class B and C
Class B only (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Class B only

Class B standpipe systems have small 1½-inch hose connections intended for occupant use and rely on the fire department to boost pressure during emergencies.

Question 57: On a balanced seesaw, a 60-lb child sits 4 ft from the pivot. How far from the pivot must a 40-lb child sit to balance it?

4 ft
6 ft (Correct answer)
2 ft
3 ft

Correct answer: 6 ft

60 × 4 = 240, so 40 × d = 240 gives d = 6 ft.

Question 58: All firefighters at Station 5 are trained in CPR. Maria is a firefighter at Station 5. What can be concluded?

Maria is trained in CPR (Correct answer)
Maria is a paramedic
Maria works at multiple stations
Maria trains others in CPR

Correct answer: Maria is trained in CPR

If all members of a group share a trait, any individual member must share it.

Question 59: Read the following passage: 'A thermal imaging camera (TIC) detects differences in surface temperature rather than seeing through smoke. Objects that have absorbed heat appear brighter on the TIC display, while cooler surfaces appear darker. A TIC cannot identify the chemical composition of materials.' Which of the following is an accurate conclusion based solely on the passage?

A TIC displays objects based on their color rather than their temperature.
A TIC can help locate a heat source in a smoke-filled room by showing temperature differences. (Correct answer)
A TIC allows firefighters to identify flammable chemicals by their heat signatures.
A TIC is most useful in rooms with no smoke present.

Correct answer: A TIC can help locate a heat source in a smoke-filled room by showing temperature differences.

The passage states that TICs detect surface temperature differences and that hotter objects appear brighter — making it possible to locate heat sources even in smoke. The passage does not support identifying chemicals, and it does not say TICs work better without smoke.

Question 60: A ladder extends 24 feet and is placed at a 3:4 ratio of horizontal distance to vertical height. What is the horizontal distance from the building?

16 feet
18 feet (Correct answer)
14.4 feet
12 feet

Correct answer: 18 feet

Using the ratio 3:4, if height is 24 ft, horizontal = (3/4) × 24 = 18 feet.

Question 61: Round 4,687 to the nearest hundred.

5,000
4,690
4,700 (Correct answer)
4,600

Correct answer: 4,700

The tens digit is 8, so round up to 4,700.

Question 62: When two springs of equal stiffness are connected end to end (in series) and a weight is hung, the total stretch compared to one spring is?

Twice as much (Correct answer)
Four times as much
Half as much
The same

Correct answer: Twice as much

Springs in series each stretch fully, so two equal springs stretch twice as much as one.

Question 63: No firefighter on this shift has a medical certification expired. John is on this shift. What is true of John's certification?

He has no certification
It is expired
It expires today
It is not expired (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It is not expired

If none on the shift has an expired certification, John's cannot be expired.

Question 64: A fire travels 300 feet in 5 minutes. At this rate, how far will it travel in 22 minutes?

1,320 feet (Correct answer)
1,260 feet
1,200 feet
1,380 feet

Correct answer: 1,320 feet

Rate = 60 ft/min; 60 × 22 = 1,320 feet.

Question 65: Instructions: 'Victims on the second floor are priority; first-floor victims are stable.' Who should be rescued first?

Neither yet
First-floor victims
Both at once
Second-floor victims (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Second-floor victims

Second-floor victims are the stated priority because first-floor victims are stable.

Question 66: In a system of meshed gears, a small gear drives a large gear. What happens to the torque output?

Torque stays the same
Torque decreases
Torque increases (Correct answer)
Torque becomes zero

Correct answer: Torque increases

Driving a larger gear increases torque while reducing rotational speed.

Question 67: A gear train has a driver of 12 teeth meshed with a 36-tooth gear, which is on the same shaft as a 12-tooth gear driving another 36-tooth gear. What is the overall speed reduction?

3 to 1
9 to 1 (Correct answer)
6 to 1
12 to 1

Correct answer: 9 to 1

Each stage reduces speed 3:1, and two stages multiply to 9:1.

Question 68: If it is true that 'whenever the alarm sounds, the crew responds,' and the alarm sounded, what follows?

The alarm did not sound
The crew was off duty
The crew responded (Correct answer)
The alarm was false

Correct answer: The crew responded

The conditional guarantees a response whenever the alarm sounds.

Question 69: During a structure fire, your captain orders an immediate evacuation over the radio while you are searching a bedroom. What should you do?

Radio to ask why the order was given
Finish searching the room first, then leave
Continue only if you believe a victim is present
Exit the building immediately by the nearest safe route (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Exit the building immediately by the nearest safe route

Evacuation orders are non-negotiable and must be obeyed immediately to ensure firefighter safety.

Question 70: Read the following instructions and answer the question. 'When advancing a 1.75-inch hoseline into a structure, the lead firefighter, or nozzleman, is responsible for managing the nozzle and directing the stream. The second firefighter, or backup man, is positioned directly behind the nozzleman to help absorb the nozzle reaction and assist with advancing the line. The third firefighter is responsible for ensuring the hoseline is free of kinks and obstructions as it is fed into the structure from the outside. This sequence ensures a coordinated and efficient advance.' According to the passage, what is the immediate responsibility of the firefighter who enters a structure right behind the nozzleman?

To establish communication with the incident commander.
To help handle the force from the nozzle and move the hose forward. (Correct answer)
To operate the nozzle and direct the water stream.
To check the hoseline for kinks and blockages outside the building.

Correct answer: To help handle the force from the nozzle and move the hose forward.

The passage explicitly states that the 'second firefighter, or backup man, is positioned directly behind the nozzleman to help absorb the nozzle reaction and assist with advancing the line.' This directly corresponds with the correct answer.

Question 71: While performing an emergency evacuation of a building, you notice a civilian who appears confused and is moving toward the fire. You should:

Report the situation over the radio and wait for guidance
Physically guide the civilian away from the fire toward the exit (Correct answer)
Shout instructions from a distance and keep moving
Continue your evacuation route and trust others will redirect the civilian

Correct answer: Physically guide the civilian away from the fire toward the exit

Direct physical intervention is necessary when a civilian is in immediate danger and moving toward the hazard.

Question 72: While cleaning the station apparatus bay, you overhear two of your fellow firefighters engaging in a heated argument about a personal matter. Their argument is becoming loud and disruptive. What is the most appropriate initial action to take?

Take a side in the argument to help one of them win and end the conflict faster.
Immediately report the two firefighters to the station captain for unprofessional conduct.
Ignore the argument as it is a personal matter and not work-related.
Calmly approach them and suggest they resolve their issue privately to maintain a professional and safe environment. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Calmly approach them and suggest they resolve their issue privately to maintain a professional and safe environment.

The best initial action is to attempt to de-escalate the situation professionally. Approaching them calmly and reminding them of the need for a professional environment addresses the immediate issue without overreacting. Ignoring it could allow the situation to worsen, immediately reporting it might be an unnecessary escalation, and taking a side is unprofessional.

Question 73: An officer states: 'Priority is rescue first, then containment, then overhaul.' What is the second priority?

Ventilation
Containment (Correct answer)
Rescue
Overhaul

Correct answer: Containment

Containment is the second priority.

Question 74: A report reads: 'The apartment fire on the fourth floor of 330 West 5th Street was brought under control in 22 minutes. Six units on floors three and four sustained smoke damage.' On which floors did units sustain smoke damage?

Floors two and three
Floors four and five
Floors three and four (Correct answer)
Floors one and two

Correct answer: Floors three and four

The report states six units on floors three and four sustained smoke damage from the fire.

Question 75: What is the correct order of the three fireground operational priorities?

Property conservation, incident stabilization, life safety
Life safety, incident stabilization, property conservation (Correct answer)
Fire control, evacuation, containment
Property conservation, rescue, fire control

Correct answer: Life safety, incident stabilization, property conservation

The three priorities of emergency operations are always life safety first, incident stabilization second, and property conservation third.

Question 76: A block-and-tackle system has 4 supporting rope sections lifting a load. What is its ideal mechanical advantage?

1
8
4 (Correct answer)
2

Correct answer: 4

Mechanical advantage of a pulley system equals the number of rope sections supporting the load.

Question 77: On a street map, a firefighter needs to find the quickest route to an incident at grid coordinate D-4. Grid columns run A–F (left to right) and rows run 1–6 (top to bottom). Where is D-4 located?

Center-right area of the map (Correct answer)
Upper-right corner of the map
Lower-right quadrant of the map
Upper-left quadrant of the map

Correct answer: Center-right area of the map

Column D is the fourth of six columns (right of center) and row 4 is the fourth of six rows (below center), placing the coordinate in the center-right area.

Question 78: A pre-plan diagram shows a shaded rectangle labeled 'PIV' with a valve symbol. What does PIV stand for?

Post Indicator Valve (Correct answer)
Pressurized Inlet Valve
Pump Isolation Vent
Primary Intake Vent

Correct answer: Post Indicator Valve

A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is a control valve for a sprinkler system whose status — open or shut — is displayed through a window on the post.

Question 79: A water tank holds 1,200 gallons and is 75% full. How many gallons are in the tank?

900 (Correct answer)
950
800
1,000

Correct answer: 900

0.75 times 1,200 equals 900 gallons.

Question 80: After a difficult call involving a civilian fatality, a teammate is visibly distressed. The BEST immediate response is to:

Check in with the firefighter privately and encourage them to speak with a peer support member or chaplain (Correct answer)
Avoid the subject entirely to give them space
Tell the firefighter to stay focused because there is still work to do
Post about the incident on social media to raise awareness

Correct answer: Check in with the firefighter privately and encourage them to speak with a peer support member or chaplain

Critical incident stress is a real occupational hazard, and connecting a distressed firefighter with peer support resources is the appropriate and compassionate response.

Question 81: A fire crew lays out 450 feet of a 2.5-inch hose. If the friction loss for this type of hose is 10 PSI per 100 feet, what is the total friction loss for the entire length of the hose?

4500 PSI
50.0 PSI
40.5 PSI
45.0 PSI (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 45.0 PSI

First, determine how many 100-foot sections are in the total length: 450 feet / 100 feet = 4.5 sections. Then, multiply the number of sections by the friction loss per section: 4.5 * 10 PSI = 45.0 PSI total friction loss.

Question 82: A firefighter uses a Class 2 lever to lift a heavy hose bundle. The fulcrum is at one end, the load is in the middle, and the effort is applied at the other end. Compared to a Class 1 lever, this arrangement:

Reduces force but increases speed
Multiplies force but reduces speed (Correct answer)
Always provides a mechanical advantage greater than 1
Provides no mechanical advantage

Correct answer: Multiplies force but reduces speed

In a Class 2 lever the load is between the fulcrum and effort, so the effort arm is always longer than the load arm, giving a mechanical advantage greater than 1 and multiplying force.

Question 83: A memo states that Station 12 responded to 18 medical calls and 9 fire calls last month. What fraction of calls were fire-related?

1/2
2/3
1/3 (Correct answer)
1/4

Correct answer: 1/3

9 fire calls out of 27 total calls (18 + 9) equals exactly one-third (1/3) of all calls.

Question 84: What is the primary purpose of ventilation during a structure fire?

To remove heat, smoke, and toxic gases (Correct answer)
To cool the exterior walls of the building
To add fresh oxygen so firefighters can breathe without SCBA
To increase the fire's intensity for faster suppression

Correct answer: To remove heat, smoke, and toxic gases

Ventilation removes heat, smoke, and toxic gases to improve visibility and survivability for occupants and interior crews.

Question 85: You are looking at a floor plan for a hospital wing. A central corridor runs East-West. On the North side of the corridor are rooms N-1, N-2, and N-3, in order from West to East. On the South side of the corridor are rooms S-1, S-2, and S-3, also in order from West to East. Room S-2 is a supply closet. A fire alarm is activated in the room directly across the hall from room N-3. Which room is in alarm?

S-1
S-2
N-2
S-3 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: S-3

The layout places the 'N' rooms on the North and 'S' rooms on the South. The rooms are numbered sequentially from West to East on both sides. Therefore, the room directly across the hall from N-3 (the easternmost room on the North side) would be S-3 (the easternmost room on the South side).

Question 86: Which arrangement gives a wrench the most turning power on a stubborn bolt?

A shorter handle
A lighter handle
A thicker handle
A longer handle (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A longer handle

A longer handle increases the lever arm, producing more torque for the same force.

Question 87: A passage reads: 'The incident involved a gas main rupture affecting a three-block radius. Residents within 500 feet were evacuated as a precaution starting at 11:15.' What distance defined the evacuation zone?

250 feet
750 feet
1,000 feet
500 feet (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 500 feet

The passage states residents within 500 feet were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Question 88: An aerial ladder reaches 75 feet. If a building floor is 10 feet tall, how many full floors can the ladder reach?

7 (Correct answer)
6
8
5

Correct answer: 7

75 ÷ 10 = 7.5, so the ladder can fully reach 7 floors.

Question 89: A fire department policy states: 'Firefighters must complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education per year. At least 10 of those hours must cover hazardous materials.' Firefighter Chen completed 35 hours of continuing education, including 12 hours on hazardous materials. Which statement is most accurate?

Chen met the hazardous materials requirement but not the total hours requirement. (Correct answer)
Chen met both requirements.
Chen met the total hours requirement but not the hazardous materials requirement.
Chen failed to meet both requirements.

Correct answer: Chen met the hazardous materials requirement but not the total hours requirement.

Chen completed 35 of the required 40 total hours but exceeded the 10-hour hazardous materials minimum with 12 hours.

Question 90: A training document reads: 'Forcible entry tools must be inspected before each shift. Any tool found defective must be tagged out and reported to the apparatus officer. Tagged tools may not be used until cleared by a certified equipment technician.' An officer discovers a defective Halligan bar mid-shift. What is the correct action?

Return it to the manufacturer immediately
Repair it on-site if possible
Tag it out and report it to the apparatus officer (Correct answer)
Continue using it carefully until shift end

Correct answer: Tag it out and report it to the apparatus officer

The procedure requires defective tools to be tagged out and reported to the apparatus officer, regardless of when the defect is discovered.

Question 91: When a firefighter compresses air into a SCBA cylinder, the temperature of the air inside rises. This best illustrates:

Boyle's Law — pressure decreases as volume decreases
Gay-Lussac's Law — pressure and temperature increase together (Correct answer)
Charles's Law — volume increases with temperature
The ideal gas law — all variables change equally

Correct answer: Gay-Lussac's Law — pressure and temperature increase together

Gay-Lussac's Law states that at constant volume, gas pressure and absolute temperature are directly proportional; compressing air raises both pressure and temperature.

Question 92: A firefighter reviews a log showing: 'Unit left station at 08:00, arrived on scene at 08:09, cleared scene at 09:15.' How long was the unit on scene?

75 minutes
60 minutes
66 minutes (Correct answer)
55 minutes

Correct answer: 66 minutes

From 08:09 arrival to 09:15 clearance is 1 hour and 6 minutes, totaling 66 minutes on scene.

Question 93: A hose weighs 2.5 pounds per foot. How much does 80 feet of hose weigh?

175 lbs
190 lbs
210 lbs
200 lbs (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 200 lbs

2.5 × 80 = 200 pounds.

Question 94: A fire crew lays 3 sections of hose, each 50 feet long, toward a structure fire 200 feet away. How many additional feet of hose are needed to reach the structure?

25 feet
100 feet
75 feet
50 feet (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 50 feet

Total hose laid = 3 × 50 = 150 feet. Remaining distance = 200 − 150 = 50 feet.

Question 95: Which type of heat transfer does NOT require a physical medium and can travel through a vacuum?

Combustion
Convection
Conduction
Radiation (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Radiation

Radiation transfers heat through electromagnetic waves that require no physical medium, which is why you can feel heat from fire even without touching it or being in its smoke path.

Question 96: A dispatch states: 'Engine 3 is responding to a reported residential structure fire at 57 Birchwood Court. Caller reports flames visible from the front door. No injuries reported at this time.' Where are flames visible according to the caller?

Rear of the structure
Side window
Front door (Correct answer)
Roof

Correct answer: Front door

The caller specifically reports flames visible from the front door of the residence.

Question 97: A report reads: 'The victim was conscious but disoriented.' What does this indicate?

The victim was asleep
The victim was uninjured
The victim was unconscious
The victim was awake but confused (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The victim was awake but confused

'Conscious but disoriented' means awake yet confused or unaware of surroundings.

Question 98: A dispatch log reads: 'Unit 7 arrived on scene at 14:22. Unit 7 requested backup at 14:35. Unit 12 arrived at 14:48.' How many minutes passed between Unit 7's arrival and Unit 12's arrival?

13 minutes
26 minutes (Correct answer)
23 minutes
11 minutes

Correct answer: 26 minutes

From 14:22 to 14:48 is exactly 26 minutes.

Question 99: Read the following passage: 'Wildland firefighters use a tool called a Pulaski to construct fire lines. One end of the Pulaski is an axe blade used for chopping through vegetation, while the other end is an adze blade used for grubbing and scraping. Together these functions allow a single firefighter to both cut and dig efficiently.' What can be inferred about the Pulaski's design?

It was designed primarily for use on structural fires
Its dual-purpose design increases a single firefighter's efficiency (Correct answer)
It is only effective in dense forest environments
It requires two firefighters to operate safely

Correct answer: Its dual-purpose design increases a single firefighter's efficiency

The passage explains that both blades together allow one firefighter to cut and dig, directly inferring the dual-purpose design improves efficiency.

Question 100: Order: 'Don your SCBA, then check your partner's air, before entering the smoke.' When do you check your partner's air?

After entering smoke
After your SCBA, before entry (Correct answer)
Before donning SCBA
It is optional

Correct answer: After your SCBA, before entry

Partner air check comes after donning SCBA and before entering the smoke.

CPS Firefighter Exam

The CPS Firefighter Exam exam validates essential knowledge and skills required for certification or licensure in this field.

100

Questions

120 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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