FDNY Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. In firefighting operations, what is the primary purpose of a Ladder Truck? → To provide high-rise access and perform rescue operations
2. Which maneuver is preferred for opening the airway in a trauma patient with a suspected cervical spine injury? → Jaw-thrust maneuver without head extension
3. The FDNY's Incident Command System (ICS) aligns with which federal framework? → The National Incident Management System (NIMS)
4. A resident asks an FDNY educator about the correct way to check if a door is safe to open during a fire. The correct technique is: → Feel the door and knob for heat before opening
5. In the FDNY's response to a vehicle extrication incident, what is the FIRST priority before initiating disentanglement of a trapped victim? → Stabilizing the vehicle to prevent movement
6. What is the most important foundational concept in Building Construction? → Understanding core principles and their practical application in Building Construction
7. A 'standpipe system' in a high-rise building is best described as: → A system of pipes and outlets that brings water to each floor for firefighting
8. In the FDNY, which rank typically commands a battalion? → Battalion Chief
9. Which document must be posted at the main entrance of a building undergoing hot work operations? → A Hot Work Permit issued by the FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention
10. When firefighters perform 'hydraulic overhaul,' they are: → Using hose streams to expose and extinguish hidden fire in voids
11. What is the primary purpose of a water thief appliance? → To allow multiple hoselines to be taken from a single supply line
12. What is the term for the FDNY's formal written directive that implements policy changes or updates department procedures? → General Order
13. The FDNY's organizational structure places several companies under the command of one administrative unit. What is that grouping called? → Battalion
14. During a structure fire, 'thermal imaging camera (TIC)' readings should be interpreted understanding that: → TIC images can be affected by reflective surfaces giving false readings
15. Under the New York City Fire Code, which entity is primarily responsible for enforcing fire prevention regulations in commercial occupancies? → FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention
16. Which FDNY unit is primarily responsible for forcible entry, search, and ventilation at a structural fire? → Ladder company
17. What is the significance of documentation in Building Construction? → It provides a record for accountability, quality assurance, and legal compliance
18. What role do FDNY firefighters play during community events? → They provide fire safety demonstrations and interact with the community
19. What is the primary reference guide FDNY HazMat units use to identify unknown chemicals at an incident scene? → Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
20. What is the purpose of using "personal protective equipment" (PPE) in firefighting? → To ensure the firefighter's safety from heat, flames, and hazardous materials
21. Under the NYC Fire Code, a place of assembly with a capacity of more than how many persons requires a fire guard during events? → 150 persons
22. Which position in the FDNY is appointed by the Mayor of New York City? → Fire Commissioner
23. When documenting patient care, which principle is MOST critical under FDNY EMS protocols? → Record vital signs at least once per transport regardless of patient stability
24. The FDNY '10-45' radio signal indicates: → Firefighter fatality or serious injury
25. Which of the following tools is typically used by firefighters to breach doors or walls during a rescue operation? → Halligan Bar
26. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Firefighting Procedures? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
27. During positive pressure ventilation (PPV), the fan should be placed: → Outside the entry door at a distance matching the door opening
28. Which UN hazard class covers flammable liquids such as gasoline and acetone? → Class 3
29. Which community education message is MOST important for FDNY educators to deliver regarding candle use in NYC apartments? → Never leave a burning candle unattended and keep it away from flammables
30. How does the FDNY coordinate with other city agencies during large-scale emergencies? → Through the Citywide Incident Management System (CIMS)