Free CERT Fire Safety & Utility Controls Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the correct class of fire extinguisher for electrical fires?

Accepted Answer

Class C

Answer

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the types of fires they are designed to extinguish. Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment. Using water (Class A) on electrical fires is extremely dangerous due to the risk of electrocution, making Class C extinguishers, which use non-conductive agents, the correct and safest choice.

Question 2

Why should you avoid using water on a grease fire?

Accepted Answer

It spreads the fire

Answer

Grease fires are fueled by flammable oils and fats. Pouring water onto a grease fire causes the water to sink below the oil, rapidly heat up, and turn into steam. This steam then forcefully displaces and splatters the burning grease, spreading the fire and potentially causing severe burns or further property damage.

Question 3

What utility should be turned off if you smell gas?

Accepted Answer

Gas

Answer

If you smell gas, it indicates a potential gas leak, which is extremely dangerous due to the risk of explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning. The immediate and safest action is to turn off the gas supply at the main shut-off valve to prevent further leakage. This minimizes the hazard until professionals can assess and repair the leak.

Question 4

What is the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher?

Accepted Answer

Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

Answer

The PASS method is a widely taught acronym for the proper use of a fire extinguisher. 'Pull' the pin, 'Aim' the nozzle at the base of the fire, 'Squeeze' the handle to release the agent, and 'Sweep' the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire. Following these steps maximizes the extinguisher's effectiveness in putting out a small fire.

Question 5

When should you evacuate instead of fighting a fire?

Accepted Answer

If fire blocks your escape route

Answer

Personal safety is paramount in any fire situation. If a fire has grown to the point where it blocks your primary escape route, attempting to fight it becomes too dangerous. At this point, the priority shifts to finding an alternative escape path and evacuating immediately to ensure your survival, leaving fire suppression to trained professionals.

CERT - Certified Community Emergency Response Team Practice Test

CERT - Certified Community Emergency Response Team Practice Test

Free CERT Fire Safety & Utility Controls Questions and Answers