OS Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention 2

Question 1

What does the acronym PASS stand for when operating a portable fire extinguisher?

Accepted Answer

Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

Answer

PASS stands for Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side — the standard technique for using a portable extinguisher.

Question 2

A Class A fire involves which type of combustible material?

Accepted Answer

Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth

Answer

Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles — wood, paper, cloth, and similar solid materials — which are commonly found in crew quarters and cargo holds.

Question 3

How many crew members are generally required to safely and effectively operate a charged fire hose aboard a merchant vessel?

Accepted Answer

Two crew members

Answer

A minimum of two crew members is required to operate a fire hose effectively — one to control the nozzle and one to manage the hose and provide support against the reaction force.

Question 4

Which firefighting agent is most effective for extinguishing a Class B fire involving flammable liquid spills?

Accepted Answer

Foam (AFFF or protein foam)

Answer

Foam smothers Class B fires by forming a vapor-sealing blanket over the liquid surface, cutting off the oxygen supply and preventing re-ignition.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) used during shipboard firefighting?

Accepted Answer

To protect the wearer from smoke inhalation and toxic gases

Answer

An SCBA provides the wearer with a clean air supply, protecting against smoke, toxic combustion gases, and oxygen-deficient atmospheres encountered during firefighting.

OS - Ordinary Seaman Exam Practice Test

OS - Ordinary Seaman Exam Practice Test

OS Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention 2