F-02 Fire Alarm Systems and Signals Practice Test 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How often must fire alarm systems in NYC shelters be tested according to FDNY regulations?
- Once a year
- Every six months
- Monthly (Correct answer)
- Weekly
Correct answer: Monthly
FDNY regulations require monthly testing of fire alarm systems in shelter facilities to ensure all components are functioning properly. This includes testing pull stations, detectors, notification appliances, and the control panel. Annual inspections by a licensed company are also required.
Question 2: What type of detector is most appropriate for areas where cooking takes place in a shelter?
- Ionization smoke detector
- Photoelectric smoke detector
- Heat detector (Correct answer)
- Flame detector
Correct answer: Heat detector
Heat detectors are most appropriate for cooking areas because they respond to temperature rather than smoke particles. Smoke detectors in kitchens would cause frequent false alarms from normal cooking smoke and steam, which could lead to alarm fatigue among occupants.
Question 3: What does a trouble signal on the fire alarm panel indicate?
- A fire has been detected in the building
- There is a system malfunction or fault that needs attention (Correct answer)
- The fire department has been automatically notified
- The alarm system has been intentionally deactivated
Correct answer: There is a system malfunction or fault that needs attention
A trouble signal indicates a system fault such as a broken wire, low battery, ground fault, or malfunctioning device. It does not mean a fire has been detected but rather that the system may not function properly if a fire occurs. The Fireguard must report trouble signals immediately.
Question 4: Which FDNY form must be used to report a fire alarm system that is out of service?
- A-35 form
- Certificate of Fitness application
- Fire alarm impairment notice (Correct answer)
- Building inspection report
Correct answer: Fire alarm impairment notice
When a fire alarm system is out of service, a fire alarm impairment notice must be filed with the FDNY. This ensures the department is aware that the building's fire detection capability is compromised and additional fire watch measures may be required.
Question 5: What is the function of a fire alarm annunciator panel?
- To automatically dial the fire department
- To display the zone or location of an alarm activation (Correct answer)
- To control the building sprinkler system
- To provide backup power to the alarm system
Correct answer: To display the zone or location of an alarm activation
An annunciator panel displays information about which zone or area of the building has an active alarm, trouble, or supervisory condition. This helps firefighters and Fireguards quickly identify the location of a potential fire without searching the entire building.
Question 6: What action should a Fireguard take if the fire alarm sounds but no fire or smoke is found after investigation?
- Immediately reset the alarm system and take no further action
- Document the false alarm and notify the building manager (Correct answer)
- Disconnect the alarm to prevent future false alarms
- Ignore it since there is no actual emergency
Correct answer: Document the false alarm and notify the building manager
Even when no fire is found, the Fireguard must document the incident including the time, location of activation, and investigation findings, and notify the building manager. Repeated false alarms may indicate a malfunctioning device that needs repair. Simply resetting without documentation is improper.
F-02 Fire Alarm Systems and Signals Practice Test 2
How often must fire alarm systems in NYC shelters be tested according to FDNY regulations?