NFPA Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I) Exam — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In the NEC, what does the term "ampacity" refer to?
- The resistance of a conductor
- The current-carrying capacity of a conductor (Correct answer)
- The length of a conductor
- The voltage rating of a conductor
Correct answer: The current-carrying capacity of a conductor
Ampacity is the maximum amount of electrical current a conductor or device can carry before sustaining immediate or progressive deterioration.
Question 2: According to NFPA 1, open burning is generally prohibited unless which condition is met?
- Wind speed is below 15 mph
- The fire department is notified 24 hours in advance
- The fire is contained in a metal barrel
- A permit is obtained from the AHJ and conditions are satisfied (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A permit is obtained from the AHJ and conditions are satisfied
NFPA 1 prohibits open burning unless a permit is issued by the AHJ and all specified conditions for safe burning are met.
Question 3: Who is primarily responsible for determining the correct NFPA 704 ratings for a hazardous material?
- The building owner or facility manager
- The manufacturer or supplier of the material (Correct answer)
- The local fire marshal who inspects the facility
- The insurance underwriter for the property
Correct answer: The manufacturer or supplier of the material
The manufacturer or supplier of a material is responsible for determining the appropriate NFPA 704 hazard ratings based on the material's properties and providing this information on safety data sheets.
Question 4: In the NFPA 704 system, which color section represents instability or reactivity?
- Yellow (Correct answer)
- Green
- White
- Orange
Correct answer: Yellow
The yellow section, located on the right side of the diamond, represents the instability/reactivity hazard rating.
Question 5: Under NFPA 13, a deluge system differs from a preaction system in that a deluge system has:
- A single detection zone
- Air-pressurized piping
- Open sprinkler heads throughout (Correct answer)
- Closed sprinkler heads throughout
Correct answer: Open sprinkler heads throughout
A deluge system uses open (non-fusible) sprinkler heads so that water discharges from all heads simultaneously when the deluge valve opens.
Question 6: According to NFPA 72, what is the maximum allowable supervisory signal response time from the control unit to the supervising station?
- 60 seconds
- 5 minutes (Correct answer)
- 90 seconds
- 30 seconds
Correct answer: 5 minutes
NFPA 72 requires that supervisory signals be received at the supervising station within 5 minutes of occurrence.
Question 7: According to NFPA 72, what is the maximum spacing for heat detectors with a listed spacing of 50 feet in a smooth ceiling room?
- 70 feet
- 50 feet (Correct answer)
- 100 feet
- 30 feet
Correct answer: 50 feet
NFPA 72 permits heat detectors to be installed at their listed spacing, which in this case is 50 feet between detectors on a smooth ceiling.
Question 8: What does NEC Article 210 cover?
- Branch circuits (Correct answer)
- Wiring methods
- Overcurrent protection
- Grounding and bonding
Correct answer: Branch circuits
Article 210 of the NEC focuses on the installation and specifications for branch circuits.
Question 9: What is the NEC requirement for receptacles installed in bathrooms?
- They must be installed at least 5 feet away from water sources
- They must be 15-ampere rated
- They must have a switch built-in
- They must be protected by a GFCI (Correct answer)
Correct answer: They must be protected by a GFCI
To prevent electrical shock, the NEC requires that all bathroom receptacles be protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
Question 10: According to NFPA 25, what must be done after any sprinkler system work that requires draining the system?
- Perform a main drain test and restore the system to service (Correct answer)
- Replace all sprinkler heads
- Submit a written report to the AHJ
- Wait 24 hours before restoring service
Correct answer: Perform a main drain test and restore the system to service
NFPA 25 requires that after any system maintenance requiring draining, a main drain test be performed and the system fully restored to service.
Question 11: According to NFPA 25, how often must fire pump acceptance tests be repeated after initial installation?
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Every 3 years
- Every 10 years
- Every 5 years
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 25 requires that fire pump annual flow tests be conducted every year to verify the pump delivers rated performance.
Question 12: Under NFPA 1, what is the maximum rise for a single step in a means of egress?
- 8.25 inches (Correct answer)
- 10 inches
- 5 inches
- 7 inches
Correct answer: 8.25 inches
NFPA 1 limits the maximum riser height in egress stairways to 8.25 inches to ensure safe, consistent stepping.
Question 13: Under NFPA 30, what is the definition of a 'flammable liquid' based on flash point?
- Flash point below 100°F (Correct answer)
- Flash point between 100°F and 140°F
- Flash point at or above 200°F
- Flash point above 140°F
Correct answer: Flash point below 100°F
NFPA 30 defines a flammable liquid as one with a flash point below 100°F, distinguishing it from combustible liquids which have higher flash points.
Question 14: What does the symbol 'SA' in the white section of an NFPA 704 diamond indicate?
- Simple asphyxiant gas (Correct answer)
- Safety approved by OSHA
- Surface-active corrosive
- Severe allergen hazard
Correct answer: Simple asphyxiant gas
SA stands for Simple Asphyxiant and identifies gases such as nitrogen or helium that displace oxygen and can cause suffocation without being otherwise toxic.
Question 15: According to NEC, what is the minimum depth requirement for burying non-metallic electrical conduits in a residential setting?
- 18 inches
- 6 inches
- 24 inches
- 12 inches (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 12 inches
The NEC specifies that non-metallic conduits should be buried at least 12 inches deep to protect them from damage.
Question 16: According to NFPA 10, how often must non-rechargeable (disposable) fire extinguishers be replaced?
- Every 6 years
- Every 5 years
- Every 12 years (Correct answer)
- Every 3 years
Correct answer: Every 12 years
NFPA 10 requires non-rechargeable fire extinguishers to be replaced every 12 years from the date of manufacture.
Question 17: What is the primary purpose of the National Electrical Code (NEC)?
- To create a standardized electrical coding system for manufacturers
- To regulate the prices of electrical components
- To ensure the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment (Correct answer)
- To establish energy-saving guidelines for electrical systems
Correct answer: To ensure the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment
The NEC is designed to protect people and property from electrical hazards through proper installation standards.
Question 18: What is the primary purpose of the NFPA 704 standard?
- To classify materials for international shipping documentation
- To establish maximum allowable storage quantities for chemicals
- To provide emergency responders with immediate visual hazard identification (Correct answer)
- To regulate the transportation of hazardous materials on public roadways
Correct answer: To provide emergency responders with immediate visual hazard identification
NFPA 704 is designed to give emergency responders quick, visual identification of hazards during fires or spills so they can take appropriate protective action.
Question 19: What is the minimum required flow pressure at the most remote sprinkler in an NFPA 13 light hazard system?
- 7 psi
- 5 psi
- 15 psi
- 10 psi (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 10 psi
NFPA 13 requires a minimum residual pressure of 7 psi at the most remote sprinkler, but design pressure at each sprinkler must meet the hydraulic calculation, commonly 7 psi minimum.
Question 20: According to NFPA 10, how often must a portable fire extinguisher receive an annual maintenance inspection?
- Every year (Correct answer)
- Every 3 years
- Every 6 months
- Every 5 years
Correct answer: Every year
NFPA 10 requires that every portable fire extinguisher receive a thorough maintenance examination at least annually.
Question 21: Under NFPA 1, how long must emergency lighting in a means of egress remain operational after power failure?
- 90 minutes (Correct answer)
- 30 minutes
- 120 minutes
- 60 minutes
Correct answer: 90 minutes
NFPA 1 requires emergency lighting to provide illumination for a minimum of 90 minutes following a power failure.
Question 22: According to NFPA 10, what is the maximum mounting height for the handle of a fire extinguisher weighing more than 40 pounds?
- 5 feet
- 5.5 feet
- 4 feet (Correct answer)
- 3.5 feet
Correct answer: 4 feet
NFPA 10 requires that extinguishers weighing more than 40 pounds be mounted so that the handle is no higher than 3.5 feet above the floor.
Question 23: According to NFPA 25, what is the minimum flow required during an inspector's test connection flow test to verify sprinkler system waterflow alarms?
- Flow equivalent to two sprinklers
- Flow equivalent to one sprinkler (Correct answer)
- 25 gpm
- 50 gpm
Correct answer: Flow equivalent to one sprinkler
NFPA 25 specifies that the inspector's test connection must produce a flow equivalent to one sprinkler to test waterflow alarm devices.
Question 24: What is an “area of refuge” as defined by the NFPA Life Safety Code?
- An area where occupants can wait for rescue if they cannot use the stairs (Correct answer)
- The roof of a building
- A designated outdoor meeting place during a fire
- The main entrance of a building
Correct answer: An area where occupants can wait for rescue if they cannot use the stairs
An area of refuge is a location designed for occupants who cannot evacuate without assistance to wait safely for rescue.
Question 25: According to NFPA 1, what is the minimum illumination level required at the floor of a means of egress during normal operation?
- 0.2 footcandles
- 5 footcandles
- 10 footcandles
- 1 footcandle (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 1 footcandle
NFPA 1 requires a minimum of 1 footcandle of illumination measured at the floor level in the means of egress.
Question 26: Under NFPA 25, how frequently must wet pipe sprinkler system gauges be inspected?
- Quarterly
- Annually
- Weekly
- Monthly (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Monthly
NFPA 25 requires gauges on wet pipe sprinkler systems to be inspected monthly to verify they are in good condition and show normal pressure.
Question 27: Under NFPA 30, how must flammable liquid storage rooms be ventilated?
- Mechanical ventilation providing at least 1 cfm per square foot of floor area (Correct answer)
- Natural ventilation only is acceptable
- Ventilation is not required if quantities are below 60 gallons
- Exhaust fan rated for 500 cfm minimum
Correct answer: Mechanical ventilation providing at least 1 cfm per square foot of floor area
NFPA 30 requires flammable liquid storage rooms to have mechanical ventilation providing at least 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot of floor area.
Question 28: Under NFPA 72, what is the minimum visible notification appliance (strobe) candela rating for a public area with 16-foot ceilings?
- 75 cd (Correct answer)
- 110 cd
- 15 cd
- 30 cd
Correct answer: 75 cd
NFPA 72 requires a minimum of 75 candela for strobes in rooms with ceiling heights between 10 and 16 feet when mounted on a wall.
Question 29: In the context of the NFPA Life Safety Code, what is the purpose of an automatic sprinkler system?
- To suppress and control fires automatically (Correct answer)
- To provide illumination during a fire
- To assist in the manual evacuation of occupants
- To alert emergency services of a fire
Correct answer: To suppress and control fires automatically
Automatic sprinkler systems are designed to control and suppress fires, thereby enhancing occupant safety and minimizing property damage.
Question 30: According to NFPA 30, what is the maximum quantity of Class I and Class II liquids that may be stored in a single cabinet without special permits?
- 60 gallons (Correct answer)
- 30 gallons
- 240 gallons
- 120 gallons
Correct answer: 60 gallons
NFPA 30 limits flammable liquid storage cabinets to a maximum of 60 gallons of Class I and Class II liquids combined.
Question 31: Under NFPA 25, how frequently must fire department connections (FDCs) be inspected?
- Weekly
- Quarterly
- Annually
- Monthly (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Monthly
NFPA 25 requires quarterly inspections of fire department connections to verify they are accessible, undamaged, and have proper caps.
Question 32: According to NFPA 10, how frequently must stored-pressure dry chemical extinguishers be subjected to a 6-year internal examination?
- Every 10 years
- Every 3 years
- Every 12 years
- Every 6 years (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Every 6 years
NFPA 10 requires stored-pressure dry chemical extinguishers to be emptied and internally examined every 6 years.
Question 33: According to the NFPA Life Safety Code, how often should fire drills be conducted in healthcare facilities?
- Annually
- Semi-annually
- Quarterly (Correct answer)
- Monthly
Correct answer: Quarterly
The LSC mandates that fire drills in healthcare facilities should be conducted quarterly to ensure staff preparedness.
Question 34: According to NFPA 72, what information must be displayed on a fire alarm control unit annunciator?
- Time of last alarm only
- Building owner contact information
- Suppression system type
- Zone or device location of alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Zone or device location of alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions
NFPA 72 requires that the annunciator display the location (zone or device) of alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions.
Question 35: In the NFPA 704 system, which color section represents the health hazard?
- White
- Yellow
- Blue (Correct answer)
- Red
Correct answer: Blue
The blue section, located on the left side of the diamond, represents the health hazard rating.
Question 36: According to NFPA 30, what is required for flammable liquid dispensing areas to prevent static ignition?
- All metal equipment must be painted with conductive paint
- The dispensing nozzle must be bonded to the container before dispensing (Correct answer)
- Rubber gloves must be worn by all personnel
- Conductive flooring must be used throughout
Correct answer: The dispensing nozzle must be bonded to the container before dispensing
NFPA 30 requires the dispensing nozzle to be bonded to the receiving container prior to opening the dispensing valve to prevent static sparks.
Question 37: According to NFPA 1, what is required before a certificate of occupancy is issued for a new building?
- Successful completion of all required fire protection system inspections and tests (Correct answer)
- Approval of architectural drawings only
- Submission of a fire emergency plan
- Payment of all permit fees
Correct answer: Successful completion of all required fire protection system inspections and tests
NFPA 1 requires that all fire protection systems be inspected, tested, and approved before a certificate of occupancy can be issued.
Question 38: According to NFPA 72, how frequently must a fire alarm system receiving central station monitoring be tested?
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Monthly
- Semi-annually
- Quarterly
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 72 requires that most fire alarm system components be tested at least annually unless more frequent testing is specified.
Question 39: In the NFPA 704 system, which color section represents flammability?
- Blue
- White
- Yellow
- Red (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Red
The red section, located at the top of the diamond, represents the flammability hazard rating.
Question 40: Where is the NFPA 704 placard most commonly and appropriately displayed?
- On stationary containers, storage tanks, and building entrances where hazardous materials are stored or used (Correct answer)
- Exclusively inside chemical storage logs and safety data sheets
- On personal protective equipment worn by chemical handlers
- Only on vehicles transporting hazardous materials on highways
Correct answer: On stationary containers, storage tanks, and building entrances where hazardous materials are stored or used
NFPA 704 placards are placed on fixed facilities such as storage tanks, containers, and buildings to alert emergency responders before they enter a hazardous area.
Question 41: Under NFPA 30, which liquid class has a flash point at or above 100°F and below 140°F?
- Class IC
- Class IB
- Class IIIA
- Class II (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Class II
NFPA 30 classifies liquids with a flash point at or above 100°F and below 140°F as Class II combustible liquids.
Question 42: According to NFPA 13, what is the maximum spacing allowed between standard spray upright or pendent sprinklers in light hazard occupancies?
- 225 sq ft
- 200 sq ft (Correct answer)
- 100 sq ft
- 130 sq ft
Correct answer: 200 sq ft
NFPA 13 permits a maximum coverage area of 200 square feet per sprinkler in light hazard occupancies.
Question 43: Under NFPA 30, what must be posted near flammable liquid storage or dispensing areas?
- OSHA 300 Log
- Material Safety Data Sheets only
- 'No Smoking' or 'No Open Flames' signs (Correct answer)
- Fire department contact number only
Correct answer: 'No Smoking' or 'No Open Flames' signs
NFPA 30 requires 'No Smoking' and 'No Open Flames' warning signs to be prominently posted in flammable liquid storage and dispensing areas.
Question 44: Under NFPA 72, smoke detectors must be located at minimum how far from a supply air diffuser?
- 10 feet
- 3 feet (Correct answer)
- 1 foot
- 5 feet
Correct answer: 3 feet
NFPA 72 requires smoke detectors to be located at least 3 feet from air supply diffusers to prevent airflow from diluting smoke before it reaches the detector.
Question 45: What is the minimum water supply duration required for a light hazard occupancy sprinkler system under NFPA 13?
- 30 minutes (Correct answer)
- 90 minutes
- 15 minutes
- 60 minutes
Correct answer: 30 minutes
NFPA 13 requires a minimum water supply duration of 30 minutes for light hazard occupancies.
Question 46: According to NFPA 30, what type of electrical equipment is required in a flammable liquid storage room classified as a Division 1 hazardous location?
- Explosion-proof or intrinsically safe (Correct answer)
- GFCI-protected only
- Weatherproof only
- Standard commercial grade
Correct answer: Explosion-proof or intrinsically safe
NFPA 30 requires explosion-proof or intrinsically safe electrical equipment in Division 1 hazardous locations where flammable vapors may be present.
Question 47: According to NFPA 30, what is the maximum quantity of Class IA liquids permitted in a processing area without a sprinkler system?
- 10 gallons
- 1 gallon
- 25 gallons
- 5 gallons (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 5 gallons
NFPA 30 limits the quantity of Class IA flammable liquid in unsprinklered processing areas to 5 gallons.
Question 48: Under NFPA 30, what is the minimum separation distance between an above-ground flammable liquid storage tank and a property line or building?
- 20 feet
- 50 feet
- 10 feet (Correct answer)
- 5 feet
Correct answer: 10 feet
NFPA 30 requires a minimum separation of at least 10 feet from a tank to a property line that can be built upon, depending on tank size and class.
Question 49: Under NFPA 25, what is the required inspection frequency for internal inspection of steel dry pipe and preaction system piping?
- Every 10 years
- Every 3 years
- Every 15 years
- Every 5 years (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Every 5 years
NFPA 25 requires an internal inspection of dry pipe and preaction system piping every 5 years to check for obstructions.
Question 50: According to NFPA 25, how often must a main drain test be conducted on a wet pipe sprinkler system?
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Quarterly
- Every 5 years
- Monthly
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 25 requires an annual main drain test to verify that the water supply is unobstructed and pressure is adequate.
Question 51: According to NFPA 30, what is required when a leak is detected in an underground storage tank system?
- Install additional leak sensors and retest in 30 days
- Reduce fill level to below the leak point
- Immediately stop use and notify the regulatory authority (Correct answer)
- Continue operation and monitor daily
Correct answer: Immediately stop use and notify the regulatory authority
NFPA 30 requires that the system be immediately taken out of service and the appropriate regulatory authority be notified when a tank leak is detected.
Question 52: According to NFPA 25, what is the required weekly test for an electric fire pump?
- Churn test (no-flow) for 10 minutes (Correct answer)
- Full flow test for 10 minutes
- Pressure test at rated flow
- Visual inspection only
Correct answer: Churn test (no-flow) for 10 minutes
NFPA 25 requires electric fire pumps to be run weekly under no-flow (churn) conditions for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Question 53: What is the minimum clearance required between the deflector of a sprinkler head and the top of storage under NFPA 13?
- 6 inches
- 12 inches
- 36 inches
- 18 inches (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 18 inches
NFPA 13 requires a minimum 18-inch clearance between the sprinkler deflector and the top of storage.
Question 54: According to NFPA 25, what condition requires replacement of a sprinkler head without testing?
- Sprinkler is more than 25 years old
- Sprinkler is a fast-response type
- Sprinkler is more than 50 years old in a wet system (Correct answer)
- Sprinkler has a painted finish from factory
Correct answer: Sprinkler is more than 50 years old in a wet system
NFPA 25 requires that sprinklers 50 years or older in wet systems be replaced or sample-tested; replacement is required if they fail testing.
Question 55: Under the NFPA Life Safety Code, what is the maximum travel distance to an exit in a sprinklered educational occupancy?
- 250 feet (Correct answer)
- 100 feet
- 200 feet
- 150 feet
Correct answer: 250 feet
The maximum travel distance to an exit in a sprinklered educational occupancy is 250 feet to ensure that occupants can reach an exit quickly and safely.
Question 56: According to NFPA 13, which occupancy classification applies to offices, schools, and churches?
- Ordinary hazard Group 1
- Light hazard (Correct answer)
- Extra hazard
- Ordinary hazard Group 2
Correct answer: Light hazard
Offices, schools, and churches are classified as light hazard occupancies under NFPA 13.
Question 57: According to NFPA 10, what is the maximum interval between visual monthly inspections of portable fire extinguishers?
- 90 days
- 30 days (Correct answer)
- 45 days
- 60 days
Correct answer: 30 days
NFPA 10 requires that fire extinguishers be visually inspected at maximum intervals of 30 days.
Question 58: Under NFPA 30, which classification applies to a liquid with a flash point below 73°F and a boiling point below 100°F?
- Class II
- Class IB
- Class IA (Correct answer)
- Class IC
Correct answer: Class IA
NFPA 30 classifies liquids with a flash point below 73°F and a boiling point below 100°F as Class IA flammable liquids.
Question 59: According to NFPA 25, what action is required when a sprinkler head shows signs of corrosion, paint, or loading?
- Clean the sprinkler head
- Document and monitor for 6 months
- Replace the sprinkler head immediately (Correct answer)
- Apply touch-up paint to protect it
Correct answer: Replace the sprinkler head immediately
NFPA 25 requires that any sprinkler showing signs of corrosion, loading, or unauthorized paint be replaced immediately.
Question 60: Which organization publishes the National Electrical Code (NEC)?
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) (Correct answer)
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
Correct answer: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
The NFPA is responsible for developing and publishing the NEC.
Question 61: Under NFPA 72, what is the purpose of a Class A wiring style for initiating device circuits?
- Permit wireless operation
- Support higher device counts
- Reduce installation cost
- Allow continued operation after a single open or ground fault (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Allow continued operation after a single open or ground fault
Class A wiring uses a loop configuration so that a single open or ground fault does not disable the entire circuit, allowing continued operation.
Question 62: What color code indicates a sprinkler with a temperature rating of 135–170°F (57–77°C) under NFPA 13?
- Uncolored/Black (Correct answer)
- White
- Blue
- Red
Correct answer: Uncolored/Black
NFPA 13 specifies that sprinklers rated at 135–170°F are uncolored (natural brass) or marked with a black color code.
Question 63: Under NFPA 10, what is the maximum travel distance to a Class A fire extinguisher in a light hazard occupancy?
- 100 feet
- 50 feet
- 150 feet
- 75 feet (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 75 feet
NFPA 10 requires that Class A extinguishers in light hazard occupancies be placed so that travel distance does not exceed 75 feet.
Question 64: Under NFPA 25, what is the required frequency for a full flow trip test of a dry pipe valve?
- Every 10 years
- Every 5 years
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Every 3 years
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 25 requires a full flow trip test of dry pipe valves annually to ensure the system operates correctly.
Question 65: According to NFPA 72, when a fire alarm system is out of service for more than how many hours must the authority having jurisdiction be notified?
- 24 hours (Correct answer)
- 4 hours
- 2 hours
- 8 hours
Correct answer: 24 hours
NFPA 72 requires notification of the AHJ when a fire alarm system is out of service for more than 8 hours.
Question 66: Under NFPA 72, which initiating device is classified as a spot-type smoke detector?
- Linear beam detector
- Air sampling detector
- Duct smoke detector
- Ionization smoke detector (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Ionization smoke detector
An ionization smoke detector is a spot-type detector that responds to products of combustion in its immediate vicinity.
Question 67: Under NFPA 25, what is the required testing frequency for antifreeze solution concentration in a sprinkler system?
- Every 5 years
- Quarterly
- Monthly
- Annually (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 25 requires annual testing of antifreeze solution concentration to ensure freeze protection remains adequate.
Question 68: Under NFPA 72, a notification appliance circuit (NAC) must be supervised for which of the following conditions?
- Open circuit and ground fault (Correct answer)
- Low battery only
- Loss of AC power only
- Overload and short circuit
Correct answer: Open circuit and ground fault
NFPA 72 requires that notification appliance circuits be monitored for integrity, meaning open circuits and ground faults must be detected.
Question 69: According to NFPA 13, which component must be provided at the base of each sprinkler riser to facilitate system testing and maintenance?
- Pressure gauge
- Butterfly valve with tamper switch (Correct answer)
- Check valve
- Inspector's test connection
Correct answer: Butterfly valve with tamper switch
NFPA 13 requires a supervised control valve (such as an OS&Y or butterfly valve with a tamper switch) at the base of each riser.
Question 70: According to NFPA 72, where must a remote annunciator panel be located?
- In the mechanical room
- At a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction (Correct answer)
- At the main electrical panel
- Adjacent to the main fire alarm control unit
Correct answer: At a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction
NFPA 72 requires remote annunciator panels to be located where approved by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
Question 71: Which NFPA 13 system type uses a pneumatic or electric detection system to open the valve before a sprinkler fuses?
- Preaction (Correct answer)
- Deluge
- Wet pipe
- Dry pipe
Correct answer: Preaction
A preaction system requires operation of a supplemental detection system to open the preaction valve before water can flow to sprinklers.
Question 72: Under NFPA 72, what minimum standby battery capacity is required for a fire alarm control unit?
- 24 hours standby + 5 minutes alarm (Correct answer)
- 4 hours alarm + 4 hours standby
- 60 minutes alarm only
- 4 hours standby + 15 minutes alarm
Correct answer: 24 hours standby + 5 minutes alarm
NFPA 72 requires fire alarm control units to have battery backup for 24 hours in standby followed by 5 minutes in full alarm.
Question 73: According to NFPA 30, what is the minimum distance between a flammable liquid dispensing station and any ignition source?
- 25 feet
- 10 feet
- 5 feet
- 20 feet (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 20 feet
NFPA 30 requires a minimum separation of 20 feet between flammable liquid dispensing operations and potential ignition sources.
Question 74: According to NFPA 30, which containers are approved for storing Class I flammable liquids in quantities up to 5 gallons?
- Clear glass jugs with cork stoppers
- Listed safety cans or approved metal containers (Correct answer)
- Standard 5-gallon buckets with lids
- Any plastic container with a screw-top lid
Correct answer: Listed safety cans or approved metal containers
NFPA 30 requires Class I flammable liquids in quantities up to 5 gallons to be stored in listed safety cans or approved metal containers.
Question 75: Under NFPA 13, what hazard classification applies to auto showrooms, bakeries, and laundries?
- Ordinary hazard Group 1 (Correct answer)
- Extra hazard Group 1
- Ordinary hazard Group 2
- Light hazard
Correct answer: Ordinary hazard Group 1
NFPA 13 classifies auto showrooms, bakeries, and laundries as Ordinary Hazard Group 1 occupancies.
Question 76: How often is the National Electrical Code (NEC) updated?
- Annually
- Every 5 years
- Every 3 years (Correct answer)
- Every 2 years
Correct answer: Every 3 years
The NEC is revised and published every three years to reflect new technologies and safety practices.
Question 77: What shape is used for the NFPA 704 hazard identification system placard?
- Circle divided into quadrants
- Square rotated 45 degrees (diamond) (Correct answer)
- Equilateral triangle
- Rectangle divided into four sections
Correct answer: Square rotated 45 degrees (diamond)
NFPA 704 uses a square rotated 45 degrees, commonly called a 'fire diamond,' divided into four colored sections.
Question 78: A rating of '0' in any NFPA 704 category indicates the material:
- Has an unknown or unstudied hazard
- Has a moderate hazard in that category
- Has a severe unclassified hazard
- Poses no significant hazard in that category (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Poses no significant hazard in that category
A rating of 0 means the material poses no significant hazard in that particular category under fire conditions.
Question 79: Under NFPA 72, which type of detector is best suited for detecting slow, smoldering fires with little visible smoke?
- Ionization smoke detector
- Photoelectric smoke detector (Correct answer)
- Fixed-temperature heat detector
- Rate-of-rise heat detector
Correct answer: Photoelectric smoke detector
Photoelectric smoke detectors are most effective at detecting slow, smoldering fires that produce large combustion particles.
Question 80: Under NFPA 25, when a waterflow alarm fails to activate during a quarterly test, what is the required corrective action?
- Restore the system to service and schedule repair within 30 days
- Document and retest annually
- Notify the fire department and restore within 24 hours
- Immediately restore to operation, investigate, and repair before leaving the site (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Immediately restore to operation, investigate, and repair before leaving the site
NFPA 25 requires that when a waterflow alarm fails, the system be restored, the deficiency investigated, and the issue corrected before the inspector leaves.
Question 81: What does NFPA 72 specify as the maximum travel distance to a manual pull station in an educational occupancy?
- 300 feet
- 150 feet (Correct answer)
- 100 feet
- 200 feet
Correct answer: 150 feet
NFPA 72 requires manual pull stations to be located so that travel distance from any point in the protected area does not exceed 200 feet.
Question 82: Under NFPA 25, what must be done with recorded inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) reports?
- Retained for the life of the system and made available to the AHJ (Correct answer)
- Retained until the next inspection of the same type
- Submitted to NFPA headquarters
- Retained for 1 year only
Correct answer: Retained for the life of the system and made available to the AHJ
NFPA 25 requires that ITM records be retained for the life of the system and be available for review by the authority having jurisdiction.
Question 83: According to NFPA 25, which valve must be tested by partially closing it and verifying the waterflow alarm activates?
- Butterfly valve
- Control valve tamper switch (Correct answer)
- OS&Y gate valve
- Check valve
Correct answer: Control valve tamper switch
NFPA 25 requires the control valve supervisory (tamper) switch to be tested by partially closing the valve and verifying the supervisory alarm is received.
Question 84: Under NFPA 10, what action is required when a fire extinguisher pressure gauge reads in the red (overcharged or undercharged) zone?
- Remove from service and recharge or replace (Correct answer)
- Tag and continue in service for 30 days
- Submit a report to the AHJ
- Add pressure if undercharged only
Correct answer: Remove from service and recharge or replace
NFPA 10 requires that extinguishers with gauges outside the operable (green) range be removed from service and recharged or replaced.
Question 85: If a material has an NFPA 704 rating of 3-4-2-OX, which single hazard category has the most severe numerical rating?
- Special hazard (OX)
- Flammability (4) (Correct answer)
- Instability (2)
- Health (3)
Correct answer: Flammability (4)
A flammability rating of 4 is the highest numerical value in this combination, indicating the material burns readily at ambient conditions.
Question 86: According to the NFPA Life Safety Code, what is the minimum number of exits required for any story of a building with an occupant load exceeding 500?
- One exit
- Four exits
- Three exits (Correct answer)
- Two exits
Correct answer: Three exits
The LSC requires a minimum of three exits for any story of a building with an occupant load exceeding 500 to ensure safe egress.
Question 87: According to the NFPA Life Safety Code, what is the minimum width requirement for egress doors in new buildings?
- 24 inches
- 32 inches (Correct answer)
- 36 inches
- 28 inches
Correct answer: 32 inches
The LSC requires that egress doors in new buildings must be at least 32 inches wide to ensure safe evacuation.
Question 88: According to NFPA 25, what is the minimum hydrostatic test pressure for a new sprinkler system installation?
- Maximum working pressure plus 100 psi
- 200 psi for all systems
- 100 psi or 50 psi above maximum system pressure, whichever is greater
- 150 psi or 50 psi above maximum system pressure, whichever is greater (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 150 psi or 50 psi above maximum system pressure, whichever is greater
NFPA 25 requires that new systems be hydrostatically tested at 200 psi or 50 psi above the maximum system working pressure, whichever is greater, for 2 hours.
Question 89: Under NFPA 25, which condition during a hydrostatic test would require the system to fail?
- Pressure drops more than 10 psi in 2 hours (Correct answer)
- Pressure drops more than 5 psi in 15 minutes
- Pressure drops more than 20 psi in 24 hours
- Any pressure drop during the test period
Correct answer: Pressure drops more than 10 psi in 2 hours
NFPA 25 specifies that a hydrostatic test fails if pressure drops more than 10 psi during the 2-hour test period.
Question 90: According to NFPA 30, what is the maximum container size permitted for Class I liquids in glass containers?
- 1 quart (Correct answer)
- 2.5 gallons
- 1 gallon
- 1 pint
Correct answer: 1 quart
NFPA 30 limits glass containers for Class I flammable liquids to a maximum size of 1 quart.
Question 91: What NEC article covers the installation of photovoltaic (solar) systems?
- Article 334
- Article 690 (Correct answer)
- Article 310
- Article 750
Correct answer: Article 690
Article 690 of the NEC provides guidelines and requirements for the installation of photovoltaic (solar) systems.
Question 92: According to NFPA 72, what signal must a fire alarm control unit transmit when a detector or device is removed for maintenance?
- No signal required
- Alarm signal
- Supervisory signal
- Trouble signal (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Trouble signal
NFPA 72 requires that removal of a detector or initiating device from its base generate a trouble signal at the control unit.
Question 93: Under NFPA 72, what is the maximum height above the floor at which a manual pull station may be installed?
- 54 inches
- 48 inches
- 66 inches
- 60 inches (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 60 inches
NFPA 72 requires manual pull stations to be mounted between 42 and 60 inches above the finished floor.
Question 94: Under NFPA 25, how often must the internal condition of wet pipe system piping be inspected in areas with a history of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)?
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Every 3 years
- Only after an obstruction event
- Every 5 years
Correct answer: Annually
NFPA 25 requires annual internal inspections of wet pipe systems in environments with a history of MIC contamination.
Question 95: Under NFPA 1, who is defined as the 'authority having jurisdiction' (AHJ)?
- The state fire marshal exclusively
- The fire chief only
- The building owner
- The organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code
NFPA 1 defines the AHJ as the organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing code requirements, or their designee.
Question 96: According to NFPA 10, which extinguisher type is most appropriate for a computer server room?
- Water
- AFFF foam
- ABC dry chemical
- CO2 or clean agent (Correct answer)
Correct answer: CO2 or clean agent
NFPA 10 recommends CO2 or clean agent extinguishers for areas with sensitive electronic equipment because they leave no residue.
Question 97: According to NFPA 1, when must a fire watch be established?
- Only when the AHJ orders it
- During all holiday events
- Only during building construction
- When a required fire protection system is impaired for more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period (Correct answer)
Correct answer: When a required fire protection system is impaired for more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period
NFPA 1 requires a fire watch when a required fire protection system is out of service for more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period.
Question 98: Which of the following is a critical component of a means of egress as per the NFPA Life Safety Code?
- Emergency lighting (Correct answer)
- Fire extinguisher
- HVAC system
- Security cameras
Correct answer: Emergency lighting
Emergency lighting is essential in a means of egress to ensure that occupants can see and navigate exits during an emergency.
Question 99: Under NFPA 72, what is the maximum allowable sound level for a public mode audible alarm signal in a sleeping area?
- 70 dB(A)
- 75 dB(A) (Correct answer)
- 110 dB(A)
- 55 dB(A)
Correct answer: 75 dB(A)
NFPA 72 requires that public mode audible alarms produce a sound level of at least 75 dB(A) at the pillow in sleeping areas.
Question 100: In NFPA 704, the symbol 'W' with a horizontal line through it (W̄) in the white section indicates:
- Water is required for storage of the material
- The material is water-soluble and safe for aqueous dilution
- Water is the preferred extinguishing agent
- The material reacts dangerously or unusually with water (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The material reacts dangerously or unusually with water
The W with a bar through it indicates that the material reacts with water in an unusual or dangerous manner, warning responders not to use water for firefighting.
NFPA Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I) Exam
The NFPA CFI-I (Certified Fire Inspector I) exam is a 100-question multiple-choice test with a 4-hour time limit, requiring a passing score of 70%. It is based on NFPA 1 (Fire Code) and covers fire inspection administration, fire protection systems and equipment, storage and handling of hazardous substances, and occupancy-specific fire and life safety requirements.
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds
These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. We have not yet matched this exam's facts to an official source, so confirm fees, dates and rules with the exam body. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy