FireTEAM Interpreting Non-Verbal Cues Flashcards

During a video scene, a person in a crowd crosses their arms tightly and turns their body slightly away from a speaker. What does this most likely indicate?

Answer: Defensiveness or disagreement

Crossed arms combined with a turned body typically signals defensiveness, discomfort, or disagreement with the speaker.

In a mechanical comprehension scenario, two gears of different sizes are meshed together. If the larger gear rotates slowly, how does the smaller gear rotate?

Answer: Faster than the large gear

A smaller gear meshed with a larger gear always rotates faster due to the difference in circumference.

A firefighter observes a victim whose breathing is rapid, shallow, and they are clutching their chest. Which non-verbal cue most strongly suggests cardiac distress?

Answer: Clutching the chest combined with labored breathing

Chest clutching combined with labored breathing is a classic non-verbal indicator of cardiac or respiratory distress requiring immediate attention.

On the FireTEAM video test, you see a person nod repeatedly while someone else is speaking. What does this most commonly convey?

Answer: Agreement or active listening

Repeated nodding universally signals agreement and active listening in most cultural contexts relevant to US firefighting assessments.

A team leader points directly at a crew member while speaking firmly. What does this non-verbal gesture most likely communicate?

Answer: Specific directive or command aimed at that individual

Pointing combined with a firm tone directs attention and authority toward a specific individual, indicating a command or instruction.

During a rescue simulation video, a trapped person waves one hand frantically while the other arm hangs limp. What should you infer?

Answer: One arm may be injured and they are signaling for help

Frantic waving with one hand while the other hangs limp strongly suggests injury to the stationary limb along with a distress signal.

In a video depicting a hazmat scenario, a worker suddenly freezes and widens their eyes upon seeing a chemical label. What does this reaction most likely indicate?

Answer: Recognition of a serious hazard

Freezing and wide eyes are autonomic fear responses indicating the worker has recognized a serious or unexpected danger.