FE Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Why is regular maintenance crucial in fire safety? → It reduces fire risks by ensuring equipment is ready
2. What does the term 'risk control measures' refer to in fire safety? → Installing sprinklers and maintaining extinguishers
3. What does a broken or missing tamper seal on a fire extinguisher indicate? → The extinguisher may have been used or tampered with and requires inspection
4. What type of hydrostatic test method involves filling the cylinder with water, pressurizing it, and measuring permanent expansion? → Water jacket test
5. Which extinguishing agent is electrically non-conductive and leaves virtually no residue after discharge? → Carbon dioxide (CO2)
6. How should risks be prioritized during fire risk assessments? → By the severity of the risk and its likelihood
7. What should be the first step in a fire risk assessment? → Identifying potential fire hazards
8. What information must be recorded on a fire extinguisher after hydrostatic testing? → Test date, test pressure, and tester identity stamped or labeled on the cylinder
9. What component of a dry chemical extinguisher prevents the powder from caking and ensures it discharges properly? → Anti-caking agitator bead
10. Sodium bicarbonate dry chemical is rated for use on which fire classes? → Class B and C fires only
11. In a cartridge-operated extinguisher, what component must be checked and possibly replaced at each annual inspection? → Gas cartridge weight and seal condition
12. What is the minimum clearance that must be maintained at the top of a fire extinguisher from the floor in a vehicle or marine application? → 1 inch
13. Which fire safety code dictates the maintenance and inspection of fire extinguishers? → NFPA 10
14. According to NFPA 10, what is the maximum travel distance to a fire extinguisher for Class A hazards in a light-hazard occupancy? → 75 feet
15. What must be recorded when a fire extinguisher is recharged at a 6-year internal maintenance? → Internal examination findings, parts replaced, and the technician's identity
16. What is the primary purpose of hazard identification in fire safety? → To identify potential fire hazards before they cause harm
17. Which organization's certification is most widely recognized in the US for portable fire extinguisher service technicians? → NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies)
18. What should be done if a fire extinguisher is found to be low on pressure? → Recharge or replace it
19. Which class of fire extinguisher is required to carry an electrical non-conductivity rating? → Class C (any extinguisher used on energized electrical equipment)
20. What is the maximum travel distance to a wheeled (Class B) extinguisher for extra-hazard occupancies? → 50 feet
21. Which component allows a technician to determine if a water-based extinguisher has sufficient agent without discharging it? → Weight measurement against the gross weight label
22. Which of the following is a sign that a fire extinguisher needs servicing? → A cracked or dented body
23. Which of the following is the correct classification for a fire extinguisher used on electrical fires? → Class C
24. How often should the internal pressure of a fire extinguisher be checked? → Every month
25. Halon 1211 (bromochlorodifluoromethane) is classified as what type of extinguishing agent? → Halogenated agent
26. When is it acceptable to top off (add a small amount of agent) to a partially discharged dry chemical extinguisher instead of fully recharging it? → Never — partial discharge requires complete recharge
27. Which item on an extinguisher's nameplate is used to identify the specific unit for record-keeping purposes? → Serial number
28. When an extinguisher is installed outdoors, what additional protection is typically required? → A weatherproof cabinet or protective cover
29. Which extinguishing agent is specifically recommended for Class K fires involving cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens? → Wet chemical potassium acetate solution
30. After recharging a wet chemical (Class K) extinguisher, what must the technician verify before returning it to service? → That agent level, pressure, and nozzle condition all meet manufacturer specifications