ERT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ERT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When treating a patient for shock in the field, what position should be used if spinal injury is NOT suspected? → Supine with legs elevated 8–12 inches
2. How can hazards be mitigated in an emergency situation? → By using control measures and PPE
3. What should be done if PPE is damaged during use? → Replace the damaged PPE immediately
4. What is the principle of least privilege in network security? → Users should have only the minimum access needed to perform their job functions
5. When using a portable fire extinguisher, what does the acronym PASS stand for? → Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
6. What common challenge do professionals face when applying Cryptography & Data Protection principles? → Balancing theoretical best practices with practical constraints and real-world conditions
7. In SAR operations, what is the main advantage of deploying a 'hasty team' first? → They rapidly cover high-probability linear features like trails, roads, and drainages
8. What is a key responsibility of the communications unit in ICS? → To maintain communication systems
9. What is the recommended approach to staying current in Cryptography & Data Protection? → Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration
10. A Class C fire involves which type of hazard? → Energized electrical equipment
11. Which of the following is the MOST reliable indicator of adequate CPR compression depth in an adult? → Compression depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm)
12. What is the FIRST action an ERT member should take upon discovering a fire in a building? → Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station
13. Which type of PPE is essential for protection against hazardous chemicals? → Chemical-resistant gloves and suits
14. What is the primary purpose of establishing containment in a search and rescue (SAR) operation? → To prevent the missing subject from unknowingly leaving the search area
15. Which best describes the scope of Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing in professional practice? → A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications
16. What is the primary purpose of a fire watch in a facility? → To continuously patrol for fire hazards when the automatic suppression system is impaired
17. How should decontaminated items be stored? → In clean, well-ventilated areas
18. In water rescue, the sequence 'REACH, THROW, ROW, GO' represents what operational principle? → A prioritized sequence of rescue techniques ordered from safest to highest-risk
19. What is a key element in a successful emergency response plan? → Clear communication and coordination
20. Which search pattern is most appropriate for covering large open terrain quickly during the initial phase of a SAR operation? → Hasty search along trails, ridgelines, and water sources
21. A patient is found unresponsive with a blood glucose reading of 40 mg/dL. What is the most appropriate intervention? → Administer oral glucose if the patient can swallow safely
22. Which burn classification is characterized by blistering, moist appearance, and extreme pain? → Partial-thickness (second-degree) burn
23. In SAR terminology, what does 'Point Last Seen' (PLS) refer to? → The last confirmed location where a witness or evidence places the missing subject
24. In fire safety, what does 'compartmentalization' refer to? → Using fire-rated walls and doors to limit fire and smoke spread
25. Which best describes the scope of Cryptography & Data Protection in professional practice? → A comprehensive area covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications
26. What is the recommended approach to staying current in Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing? → Regular professional development, industry publications, and peer collaboration
27. What is the most important competency assessed in Database Management & Security for professionals in this field? → Applied knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
28. How often should compliance procedures be reviewed and updated? → Regularly, and whenever regulations change or new risks are identified
29. What does the acronym AVPU stand for in patient assessment? → Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive
30. Which class of fire involves ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, and cloth? → Class A