FireTEAM Problem Sensitivity Flashcards

A firefighter observes that windows on the fire floor are bulging outward slightly. What hazard does this indicate?

Answer: Extreme pressure buildup inside from heat and gases, indicating flashover or explosion risk

Outward-bulging windows indicate tremendous internal pressure from superheated gases, which is a pre-flashover or potential explosive decompression warning.

While suppressing a car fire, a firefighter notices the fire is near the vehicle's trunk. What additional hazard should the firefighter recognize?

Answer: The trunk may contain compressed gas cylinders, propane, or other stored items that could explode

Vehicle trunks frequently contain stored materials like propane tanks, flares, and compressed cylinders that can explode when exposed to fire.

A firefighter notices a crew member's protective hood has melted in several places after a fire attack. What is the primary concern?

Answer: The firefighter was exposed to extreme heat that exceeded the gear's protection rating, indicating a near-miss

Melted PPE indicates the firefighter was exposed to temperatures exceeding the gear's design limits, which constitutes a near-miss that must be reported and investigated.

During a wildland fire operation, a firefighter notices the wind has shifted 180 degrees. What is the most immediate concern?

Answer: The fire's direction of travel has potentially reversed, threatening the crew's safety zone and escape routes

A 180-degree wind shift reverses the fire's direction of spread, which can rapidly put firefighters in the fire's path and compromise escape routes.

A firefighter on the nozzle notices the fire is not darkening down after applying water for 30 seconds. What might this indicate?

Answer: The nozzle pattern may be incorrect, the water supply may be inadequate, or fire may be in a void space inaccessible to the stream

Fire that does not respond to water application suggests a flow, pattern, or access problem — the crew must reassess rather than continuing an ineffective attack.

While conducting a primary search in zero visibility, a firefighter loses contact with their partner and cannot hear them. What is the correct immediate action?

Answer: Activate PASS device, shout to locate partner, and if no response, call Mayday immediately

A lost firefighter is a life-safety emergency requiring immediate PASS activation, audible signals, and a Mayday declaration if contact is not quickly re-established.

A firefighter notices that during a working fire, the door to the fire apartment repeatedly slams shut due to wind. What problem should be recognized?

Answer: Wind-induced positive pressure may accelerate fire spread and intensify the fire

Wind pushing into a fire compartment can intensify combustion, accelerate fire spread, and push fire toward unprotected areas of the building.