Home Fires
What time do most fatal home fires occur?
At night while people are sleeping.
What percent of wildfires are human-caused?
A: 90%
What is the most common natural disaster in the U.S.?
Flooding
What does CERT stand for?
A: Community Emergency Response Team.
What system does CERT use to organize disaster response?
A: The Incident Command System (ICS).
What is the leading cause of death in a fire?
A: Asphyxiation.
What are the three patterns of wildfire spread?
A: Ground fire, surface fire, crown fire.
What’s the rule to follow if encountering flood waters while driving?
A: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
What is one non-disaster role of a CERT member?
A: Staff a first aid booth at a community event.
Who refers media during an incident?
A: The CERT Incident Commander/Team Leader. Refers them to Fire department PIO
Name two actions to take if you can't escape a fire.
A: Stuff wet cloth around vents and stay low near a window.
How far should grills and propane tanks be from structures?
A: At least 15 feet.
What is a flash flood?
A: A flood that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall.
What’s in a basic CERT safety gear kit?
A: Helmet, gloves, N95 mask, goggles, sturdy shoes.
What is the first step in the 9-step on-scene size-up?
A: Gather facts.
What should be part of a family fire plan?
A: Identify two escape routes and practice the escape plan.
What’s one step to take during a wildfire if you have time before evacuating?
A: Move flammable items to the center of the home.
What’s one thing to do to protect your home before a flood?
A: Install sump pumps with battery backup. / Sandbags
What should your disaster supply kit contain?
A: Essentials for at least 3 days, in multiple locations.
Name one CERT documentation form.
A: Damage Assessment or Personnel Resources form. /Form 1A
What is one important electrical safety tip after a fire?
A: Do not touch electrical equipment if it's wet.
What’s a key part of long-term wildfire prevention around your home?
A: Create three defensible zones with a 30-foot non-fuel perimeter.
What type of personal protective gear is recommended after a flood?
A: Gloves, goggles, rubber boots, and an N-95 mask.
What does “mitigation” mean in emergency management?
A: Reducing the loss of life and property by lessening disaster impact.
What is the top priority for CERT members during response?
A: Rescuer safety.