Firefighter Basics and Safety Practice Flashcards

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering firefighting fundamentals, extinguishment methods, equipment, and safety procedures.

Fire Triangle

The three elements of fire consisting of heat, fuel, and oxygen.

Fire Tetrahedron

The combination of heat, fuel, oxygen, and a chemical chain reaction.

Combustion

A chemical reaction that occurs when a substance combines with oxygen and releases heat and often light.

Flash Point

The temperature at which a substance gives off enough vapor to ignite when exposed to an ignition source.

Sublimation

The process of a solid changing directly into a gas.

Conduction

Heat transfer that occurs through direct contact.

Convection

Heat transfer through the movement of liquids or gases.

Radiation

Heat transfer through electromagnetic waves.

Flashover

The near-simultaneous ignition of most combustible materials in an enclosed area when conditions reach the necessary level for rapid fire development.

Fire Extinguishment Methods

The four basic methods including removing heat, removing fuel, removing oxygen, and interrupting the chemical chain reaction.

Cooling

The primary extinguishing action of water, which occurs as it absorbs heat while changing from liquid to vapor.

Class A Fire

Fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, and cloth.

Class B Fire

Fires involving flammable liquids.

Class C Fire

Fires involving energized electrical equipment.

Class D Fire

Fires involving combustible metals.

Class K Fire

Fires involving cooking oils and fats.

Offensive Attack

An aggressive interior attack conducted by firefighters when conditions and resources make it appropriate.

PPE

Personal protective equipment designed to protect firefighters from heat, flame, smoke, and other hazards.

SCBA

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, used to provide respiratory protection in an IDLH atmosphere.

IDLH

Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health.

PASS Device

An alert device that sounds when a firefighter is motionless or manually activates the alarm.

Fire Hose

A tool used to transport and deliver water or another extinguishing agent.

Nozzle

A device used to control and direct the water stream.

Hydrant

A connection point used to provide access to a municipal water supply for firefighting.

Friction Loss

The loss of pressure caused by resistance to water flow through hose, fittings, and appliances.

Ground Ladders

Equipment, including single and extension types, used for access, rescue, ventilation, and positioning.

Primary Search

A rapid search conducted to locate and remove occupants who may be in danger.

Secondary Search

A thorough search conducted after the primary search is complete and conditions have improved.

Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)

A device used for detecting temperature differences to help locate heat sources, fire, and victims.

Structural Collapse

The failure of part or all of a building's structural system.

Lightweight Structural Component

Components designed to reduce weight and material use that may lose strength rapidly when exposed to fire.

Ventilation

The systematic removal of heat, smoke, and gases from a structure.