FIREFIGHTER 1 FUNDAMENTALS
Name the four components of the fire tetrahedron.
Fuel, heat, oxygen, chemical chain reaction.
What does "RIC" stand for?
Rapid Intervention Crew.
What does charge the line mean?
To fill the hoseline with water and pressurize it.
At or just below the windowsill.
What does NFPA stand for?
National Fire Protection Association.
What's the difference between direct and indirect fire attack?
Direct = Water applied straight to the base of the fire.
Indirect = Steam conversion in an enclosed area to cool hot gases.
What is the main purpose of a Rapid Intervention Crew?
To locate, assist, and remove firefighters in distress.
What should you always do before entering a structure with a charged line?
Bleed air from the line and check the stream pattern.
How many firefighters are required to safely raise a 24-foot extension ladder?
At least 2 firefighters.
Who is responsible for overall accountability at a fire scene?
Incident Commander (IC)
Define "flashover"
The near-simultaneous ignition of all combustible materials in an area due to radiant heat buildup.
When should a firefighter declare a Mayday?
When lost, trapped, low on air, entangled, injured, or separated from crew and can't find egress, or when they deem it is necessary.
What is friction loss?
The loss of pressure as water moves throughout the hose due to friction.
What knot is commonly used to secure tools to a rope for hoisting?
Clove hitch and half hitch combination.
What is the correct compression-to-breath ratio for an adult when performing CPR?
30 compressions to 2 breaths.
What's the purpose of a secondary search?
Confirming that no victims remain after the initial knockdown ensures thoroughness after the primary search.
What's the term for using the hoseline to guide a disoriented firefighter back to the exit?
Hose-based egress or following the coupling orientation. (Smooth, bump, bump to the pump)
What does "penciling the ceiling" mean?
Quick, short bursts to cool superheated gases overhead.
Before cutting a roof, what should the firefighter check for?
Roof stability and fire location.
What should be done before forcing doors on an elevator?
Shut down and lock out power.
List three signs of impending building collapse.
Cracked/bowed walls, sagging rooflines, creaking sounds, heavy fire for >20 minutes in lightweight truss, falling bricks/mortar.
What does "softening the building" mean?
Forcing doors, removing window bars, and making secondary exits for interior crews.
In zero visibility, how can firefighters stay oriented inside?
Keep one and on the wall or hoseline and communicate constantly with the crew.
What's the first thing a ladder crew should do after forcing entry?
Control the door to limit air flow.
What color hydrant floors less than 500 gallons per minute (GPM)?
Red Hydrant