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. According to NFPA 10, what is the purpose of the 'operating instructions' label requirement on a portable fire extinguisher? → To provide users with clear, pictorial steps for operation facing outward
3. What does the term 'risk control measures' refer to in fire safety? → Installing sprinklers and maintaining extinguishers
4. 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
5. What type of hydrostatic test method involves filling the cylinder with water, pressurizing it, and measuring permanent expansion? → Water jacket test
6. Which extinguishing agent is electrically non-conductive and leaves virtually no residue after discharge? → Carbon dioxide (CO2)
7. Which extinguisher type is recommended for use on lithium-ion battery fires in NFPA guidance? → Large volumes of water or water mist
8. How should risks be prioritized during fire risk assessments? → By the severity of the risk and its likelihood
9. Which fire extinguisher type is most appropriate for a laboratory that stores both flammable solvents and sensitive analytical instruments? → Clean agent (halogenated hydrocarbon)
10. During maintenance of a wheeled fire extinguisher, NFPA 10 requires the hose and nozzle assembly to be inspected for what condition in particular? → Freedom from cracks, cuts, abrasions, and obstructions
11. A CO2 extinguisher is considered to require recharging when its weight loss exceeds what threshold? → 10% of net agent weight or 1 lb, whichever is less
12. What should be the first step in a fire risk assessment? → Identifying potential fire hazards
13. 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
14. What component of a dry chemical extinguisher prevents the powder from caking and ensures it discharges properly? → Anti-caking agitator bead
15. Sodium bicarbonate dry chemical is rated for use on which fire classes? → Class B and C fires only
16. Per NFPA 10, what is the frequency required for the inspection of portable fire extinguishers? → At least monthly
17. Which NFPA standard governs the installation, inspection, and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers in the United States? → NFPA 10
18. Which extinguisher class is specifically designed for fires involving energized electrical equipment? → Class C
19. Per NFPA 10, the maximum floor area protected by a single 2-A rated extinguisher in a light hazard occupancy is: → 11,250 sq ft
20. In a cartridge-operated extinguisher, what component must be checked and possibly replaced at each annual inspection? → Gas cartridge weight and seal condition
21. Which condition would most likely cause a technician to upgrade an area's hazard classification from ordinary to extra hazard during an assessment? → Large quantities of flammable liquids stored on open shelving
22. 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
23. Which fire safety code dictates the maintenance and inspection of fire extinguishers? → NFPA 10
24. 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
25. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157, employers who designate employees to use fire extinguishers must provide training how often? → Annually
26. Which standard provides requirements for the design, performance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers for UL listing? → UL 711
27. 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
28. What is the primary purpose of hazard identification in fire safety? → To identify potential fire hazards before they cause harm
29. A fire extinguisher rated for Class D use would most likely contain which agent? → Dry sand or sodium chloride-based powder
30. 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)