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Quizzes > Science > Other Sciences

Master the F04 Fire Guard Practice Test

Ready to dive in? Take our free FO4 practice test and power up your F04 study guide prep.

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for F04 fire guard practice test quiz on a golden yellow background

Use this F04 practice test to check your skills in fire safety patrols, alarms, smoke control, and evacuation. Spot gaps before the exam with instant answer feedback as you practice. Stay sharp on notification appliances, communication steps, and core codes with short, real‑world items.

What is the primary responsibility of a fire guard during a hot work operation?
Repair welding equipment
Operate the fire alarm system
Monitor for sparks and embers to prevent ignition
Supervise material deliveries
A fire guard's main duty during hot work is to watch for sparks or embers that could ignite surrounding materials and to take immediate action if a fire starts. They ensure the area is clear of combustibles and have fire extinguishing equipment ready. Proper vigilance reduces fire risk during welding or cutting.
Which extinguisher class is appropriate for ordinary combustible materials like wood and paper?
Class B
Class A
Class C
Class K
Class A extinguishers are designed for common combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth. They typically use water or foam to cool and penetrate the burning material. The label identifies them by a green triangle with an "A".
What does NFPA stand for?
National Fire Protection Association
National Fabrication and Packaging Association
National Fuel Producers Alliance
National Forestry and Parks Agency
NFPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association, which publishes codes and standards for fire safety. It provides guidelines on fire prevention, detection, and suppression. Many jurisdictions adopt NFPA standards into law.
What simple mnemonic helps remember how to operate a portable fire extinguisher?
STOP
SNAP
FIRE
PASS
The mnemonic PASS stands for Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. It guides users through the correct steps to operate an extinguisher. Following PASS increases the chance of extinguishing a small fire.
Which firefighting tool is primarily used to break windows or pry open doors?
Bolt cutters
Pike pole
Halligan bar
Hydrant wrench
The Halligan bar is a multipurpose forcible entry tool used by firefighters to pry, twist, and break open structures. It combines a wedge, a fork, and an adze on one tool. It's essential for rapid entry during rescue or fire attacks.
Which agency enforces workplace fire safety regulations in the United States?
CDC
OSHA
EPA
DOE
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces standards to protect workers, including fire safety measures. OSHA regulations cover exit routes, fire extinguisher access, and hot work procedures. Compliance helps reduce workplace injuries and property loss.
What color hose typically indicates a standpipe connection in a building?
Yellow
Blue
Red
Green
Standpipe hose valves and hoses are commonly color-coded red in many jurisdictions. This helps firefighters quickly identify fire department connections. Standards can vary, but red is the most widely used color.
Class C fire extinguishers are specifically rated for which type of hazard?
Flammable liquids
Cooking oils
Energized electrical equipment
Metal fires
Class C extinguishers contain nonconductive agents to safely fight fires involving electricity. They protect against shock hazards when extinguishing energized equipment. De-energizing equipment first is best practice, but Class C covers initial action.
What is the minimum reach of a fire hose stream required for standpipe systems?
100 feet
10 feet
50 feet
30 feet
Standpipe hose streams must reach a minimum of 50 feet to ensure coverage of fire areas. This standard reach ensures water can be applied to fires within stairwells or floors away from the connection. Local codes may specify exact requirements.
How often should portable fire extinguishers be visually inspected?
Every five years
Annually
Every week
Monthly
ANSI/OSHA standards require monthly visual inspections of portable extinguishers to check pressure, seals, and physical condition. They must be fully charged and accessible. Quarterly and annual maintenance by qualified personnel is also mandated.
What does a flashing red light on a fire alarm control panel usually indicate?
System normal
Maintenance mode
Power supply failure
Alarm condition
A flashing red light on most panels signifies an active alarm condition requiring immediate response. Steady red may indicate trouble, and green often shows normal operation. Familiarity with panel indications speeds emergency actions.
Which tool is used to measure the temperature rating of a sprinkler head?
Manometer
Flow meter
Thermometer gun
Hygrometer
Infrared thermometer guns can verify ambient or activation temperatures of sprinkler heads. They help ensure heads are installed in areas that won't exceed their rating prematurely. Proper temperature mapping avoids accidental activations.
What is the recommended safe distance for a fire guard to patrol during hot work?
At least 100 feet away
In the next room over
Within sight and sound, typically 35 feet
Within 10 feet
Fire guard guidelines often require guards to be within sight and sound - around 35 feet - of the hot work to respond quickly. They must remain alert for stray sparks and flammable vapors. Distance can vary by code but must allow immediate intervention.
How often should a fire alarm system be tested by a certified technician?
Daily
Annually
Every five years
Monthly
NFPA 72 recommends annual inspections and testing of fire alarm systems by qualified technicians. Monthly checks by staff are supplemental but full functional tests require specialists. Regular maintenance ensures system reliability during emergencies.
What color code is often used for emergency exits in signage?
Yellow
Blue
Red
Green
Green is widely used for exit signs because it's associated with safety and direction. It stands out against building finishes, guiding occupants to egress. Red can indicate fire equipment but green signals safe routes.
Which fire class involves cooking oils and fats, requiring a special wet-chemical extinguisher?
Class D
Class B
Class A
Class K
Class K fires involve cooking oils and fats commonly found in commercial kitchens. Wet-chemical extinguishers saponify oils, creating a foam blanket that cools and seals the surface. Using water can spread these high-temperature fires.
What is the minimum water flow rating for fire hoses used in standpipe systems?
250 gallons per minute
500 gallons per minute
750 gallons per minute
100 gallons per minute
NFPA standards require standpipe systems to supply 250 gpm at each hose station to ensure adequate firefighting capacity. This flow sustains effective stream reach and suppression. Design must account for simultaneous use on multiple floors.
What type of passive fire protection is a fire-rated wall designed to provide?
Containment to slow fire spread
Active alarm signaling
Smoke extraction
Automatic suppression
Fire-rated walls act as passive barriers that compartmentalize a building, slowing fire and smoke spread. They maintain structural integrity for a specified rating period. This containment allows safe evacuation and firefighting operations.
Which device is designed to close automatically when ductwork is exposed to high heat?
Pressure relief valve
Flow switch
Smoke detector
Fire damper
Fire dampers are installed in ductwork and close upon heating, preventing fire and smoke from traveling through HVAC systems. They use fusible links rated to melt at specific temperatures. Proper installation ensures compartmentation integrity.
How often must a standpipe system be internally inspected for obstructions?
Every ten years
Every five years
Annually
Monthly
NFPA 25 requires annual internal inspections of standpipe piping to check for obstructions, corrosion, or damage. This helps maintain reliable water flow during emergencies. Deficiencies must be corrected promptly.
What does a Class B fire involve?
Live electrical equipment
Flammable liquids
Metal fires
Wood and paper
Class B fires involve flammable and combustible liquids such as gasoline, oil, and solvents. They require foam, dry chemical, or CO2 extinguishers to break the flammable vapor barrier. Water can spread these fires.
Which pressure is typically required at the topmost hose connection of a building standpipe?
65 psi
100 psi
200 psi
150 psi
Standpipe systems should provide at least 100 psi at the most remote outlet to ensure adequate nozzle pressure, accounting for elevation and friction losses. This ensures effective stream reach. Local codes may vary slightly.
What flame spread index indicates low flame propagation on building materials?
Class I (0 - 25)
Class II (26 - 75)
Class III (76 - 200)
Class IV (201 - 300)
Materials with a flame spread index of 0 - 25 are classified as Class I (or A), indicating very limited flame spread. These are preferred for exit enclosures and corridors. Higher classes spread fire more rapidly.
Which type of detector responds fastest to rapid increases in heat?
Fixed-temperature heat detector
Ionization smoke detector
Rate-of-rise heat detector
Photoelectric smoke detector
Rate-of-rise heat detectors activate when the temperature rises by a preset rate, often 15°F per minute. They are effective for environments where smoke detectors may not be appropriate. Fixed-temperature detectors wait until a threshold is reached.
What is the minimum discharge duration for a portable fire extinguisher rated 2-A?
15 seconds
5 seconds
8 seconds
20 seconds
A 2-A rated extinguisher must discharge for at least 8 seconds to ensure adequate firefighting capability. This duration allows sufficient agent flow to suppress class A fires. Ratings correlate with performance tests.
What maintenance interval is required for fire sprinkler systems?
Semi-annually
Every two years
Monthly
Quarterly
NFPA 25 requires semi-annual inspection and testing of sprinkler system control valves and waterflow devices. Quarterly testing covers gauges and electronic supervisory signals. Regular maintenance ensures system readiness.
What is the purpose of a fire department connection (FDC)?
To evacuate occupants
To test hydrant pressure
To supply additional water to standpipe or sprinkler systems
To provide manual alarm activation
An FDC allows fire departments to pump water into building standpipe or sprinkler systems to boost pressure and flow. It's critical when internal pumps can't meet demand. Connections are typically located at ground level.
According to NFPA standards, how long must a fire watch be maintained after completion of hot work?
2 hours
60 minutes
30 minutes
24 hours
NFPA 51B requires that a fire watch continue for at least 60 minutes after completion of hot work to detect smoldering fires. During this period, the guard monitors for hidden sparks or embers. Adequate watch prevents re-ignition.
What formula represents water flow in friction loss calculations for hoses?
H = Q^2/C^2L
P = F/A
Q = AV
V = IR
Friction loss in hoses can be estimated using H = Q²/(C²L), where H is head loss, Q is flow rate, C is the hose coefficient, and L is length. This helps determine required pump pressure. Accurate calculations ensure effective stream delivery.
What fire-resistance rating must structural steel members have in a Type I construction building over 75 feet tall?
4 hours
3 hours
1 hour
2 hours
Type I construction over 75 feet typically requires 3-hour fire-resistance for primary structural steel members. This protects against collapse during extended fire exposure. Ratings derive from ASTM E119 tests.
During a fire pump acceptance test, what minimum churn pressure must be met?
100% of rated
65% of rated
150% of rated
10% of rated
NFPA 20 requires that a fire pump achieve at least 65% of its rated capacity at churn (no-flow) conditions. This verifies mechanical integrity before flow tests. It ensures the pump can operate under varying loads.
What is the critical radiant flux minimum requirement for floor coverings in an exit way per ASTM E648?
0.12 W/cm²
0.40 W/cm²
0.22 W/cm²
0.05 W/cm²
ASTM E648 sets a minimum critical radiant flux of 0.22 W/cm² for floor coverings in exit routes to limit flame spread under radiant heat. This ensures safe evacuation conditions. Testing is done under standardized heat flux.
Which smoke control method uses pressurization to prevent smoke infiltration into egress paths?
Dilution ventilation
Exhaust ventilation
Stairwell pressurization
Smoke curtains
Stairwell pressurization maintains a higher air pressure than adjacent fire floors, preventing smoke entry during evacuation. Fans and ductwork supply clean air to stairwells. It's a key egress safety feature in tall buildings.
What is the minimum illumination level required for exit sign visibility during power outages?
0.1 foot-candle
10 foot-candles
1 foot-candle
5 foot-candles
NFPA 101 requires at least 0.1 foot-candle of emergency lighting at exit signs during power failure. This minimal illumination ensures sign legibility and safe egress. Backup power sources must maintain lighting for at least 90 minutes.
In fire pump horsepower calculations, which value represents the total dynamic head?
Elevation head plus friction losses
Difference in suction and discharge pressures
Nozzle flow rate
Pump efficiency ratio
Total dynamic head equals the static elevation difference plus friction losses in pipe and fittings. It's critical for sizing a pump's horsepower. Accurate head calculations ensure desired flow rates.
What type of detector uses light scattering to identify larger smoke particles quickly?
Ionization smoke detector
Photoelectric smoke detector
Carbon monoxide detector
Heat detector
Photoelectric detectors use a light source and sensor to detect smoke particles by light scattering. They respond faster to smoldering, smoky fires. Ionization detectors detect smaller particles from flaming fires more quickly.
What factor determines the minimum number of fire extinguishers required on a floor area?
Ceiling height
Number of exits
Occupant age
Square footage and travel distance
NFPA 10 mandates extinguisher placement based on floor area size and maximum travel distance to an extinguisher. This ensures accessible coverage. Different hazard classes affect spacing requirements.
Which component in a sprinkler system prevents water hammer effects during rapid valve closure?
Drip leg
Flow switch
Check valve
Pressure relief valve
Pressure relief valves open to relieve transient pressure spikes (water hammer) when valves close quickly. They protect piping and equipment from damage. Proper maintenance ensures they operate when needed.
Which NFPA standard specifically covers the criteria for fire watches during hot work?
NFPA 51B
NFPA 72
NFPA 10
NFPA 101
NFPA 51B provides detailed requirements for hot work operations, including fire watch criteria. It defines duties, durations, and equipment needed for safe practices. Compliance reduces fire risks significantly.
In performance-based design, what fire scenario is used to evaluate sprinkler system adequacy in high-challenge hazards?
Hydrocarbon pool fire curve
Decay heat curve
Standard fire curve
Temperature rise curve
Hydrocarbon pool fire curves model high-heat release scenarios typical in flammable liquid storage. Performance-based designs use these to size sprinklers for extreme hazards. They ensure suppression under severe conditions.
When calculating occupant load for assembly areas, what factor does the IBC assign per person on level egress paths?
15 square feet
3 square feet
30 square feet
7 square feet
The International Building Code assigns 15 sq ft per person for level egress paths in assembly areas. This accounts for furniture and circulation space. It's essential for safe evacuation planning.
For hose testing under NFPA 1962, what is the standard test pressure applied to 2½-inch fire hose?
200 psi
350 psi
300 psi
250 psi
NFPA 1962 requires 2½-inch hoses to be tested at 250 psi for five minutes to ensure integrity and leak-free condition. This standard pressure verifies the hose's strength. Passing the test is mandatory for in-service hoses.
Which hydraulic calculation method uses the Hazen-Williams coefficient to determine friction losses?
Pouiseuille's law
Darcy-Weisbach equation
Hazen-Williams formula
Bernoulli's equation
The Hazen-Williams formula calculates friction loss in fire hoses using a coefficient that depends on hose condition and diameter. It's commonly used for quick field estimates. The formula is easy to apply without flow viscosity data.
During acceptance testing of a new fire pump, which test verifies the pump's performance at rated flow and head?
Rated capacity test
Churn test
Endurance test
Power test
The rated capacity test measures pump flow and head under full design conditions to confirm it meets manufacturer ratings. It's conducted after installing the pump. Meeting rated performance is required before commissioning.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Apply Fire Guard Protocols -

    Demonstrate correct procedures for inspecting fire safety equipment and enforcing fire guard regulations during events.

  2. Evaluate Emergency Plans -

    Assess indoor and outdoor venue plans to identify potential hazards and improve response strategies in case of fire emergencies.

  3. Identify Safety Equipment -

    Recognize various types of fire suppression and detection devices and understand their proper usage and maintenance.

  4. Demonstrate Crowd Control Measures -

    Implement effective techniques for managing audience movement and ensuring safe evacuation routes during an incident.

  5. Interpret Regulatory Standards -

    Analyze relevant fire guard guidelines and criteria within the F04 study guide to ensure compliance with local and state requirements.

Cheat Sheet

  1. RACE Emergency Response Protocol -

    The mnemonic RACE (Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish/Evacuate) from NFPA 101 offers a clear sequence for initial fire incidents and is a staple in any F04 study guide. When practicing with an f04 practice test, recall each step in order to ensure rapid, efficient action under stress. This protocol is taught in fire science programs at the University of Maryland and widely adopted by industry.

  2. PASS Fire Extinguisher Operation -

    Learn the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) outlined in NFPA 10 to operate portable extinguishers safely: pull the pin, aim low, squeeze the handle, and sweep the nozzle side to side. Use the mnemonic "PASS" when tackling questions on a fo4 practice test to boost memory during timed drills. This technique is endorsed by the U.S. Fire Administration for all fireguard certification candidates.

  3. Occupant Load & Egress Calculations -

    Calculate occupant load by dividing the floor area by the occupant load factor (e.g., 7 sq ft per person for assembly areas) per NFPA 101 - OL = Area ÷ Load Factor - to verify safe egress capacities. Memorize this formula for quick responses on an f04 practice test or in your F04 study guide. Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service provides detailed tables and examples online.

  4. Fire Watch Inspection Procedures -

    NFPA 600 specifies fire watch duties, including 15-minute patrol intervals and detailed log entries to document hazards and corrective actions. Review typical inspection checklists in your F04 study guide to spot common lapses like blocked exits or nonfunctional alarms. These industry-standard practices are used by fireguard teams in large venues such as stadiums and convention centers.

  5. Incident Command & Communication -

    Under the National Incident Management System (NIMS), understanding the Incident Command System (ICS) hierarchy ensures clear roles and radio protocols during emergencies. Practice ICS chain-of-command scenarios in your f04 fireguard practice test to master dispatcher-to-command workflows. FEMA's ICS 100 courses offer comprehensive training on these procedures.

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