Safety and Health Flashcards

Which gas, produced in fires involving plastics and synthetics, blocks the body's ability to use oxygen and is highly toxic?

Answer: Hydrogen cyanide

Hydrogen cyanide, common in modern fires with synthetic materials, interferes with cellular oxygen use and is potentially fatal.

What is the recommended response when a firefighter recognizes signs of flashover developing in a room?

Answer: Apply water to cool gases and exit if conditions cannot be controlled

Cooling the heated gas layer or rapidly exiting prevents being caught in a flashover's lethal ignition.

Why must firefighters be cautious of the "thermal layering" of gases and stay low in a smoke-filled room?

Answer: The hottest, most toxic gases rise while cooler air stays near the floor

Heated toxic gases collect near the ceiling, so staying low keeps firefighters in relatively cooler, more survivable air.

What is the primary health risk of repeated exposure to diesel exhaust in the fire station apparatus bay?

Answer: It contains carcinogens linked to increased cancer risk

Diesel exhaust is a known carcinogen, so stations use capture systems to protect firefighters' long-term health.

During a structure fire, what does a sudden change such as smoke pushing rapidly from openings under pressure indicate?

Answer: Possible impending backdraft or rapid fire growth

Pressurized, pulsing smoke can signal a ventilation-limited fire prone to backdraft when oxygen is introduced.

What is the safest practice regarding SCBA face piece seal before entering a hazardous atmosphere?

Answer: Perform a seal/fit check to ensure no air leaks around the mask

A proper seal check ensures contaminated air cannot leak in around the face piece.

Why should firefighters avoid wearing soiled turnout gear inside living quarters or vehicles?

Answer: Carcinogenic contaminants can transfer to skin and surfaces

Contaminated gear spreads carcinogens, so it is kept out of clean areas to limit secondary exposure.