Fire Safety, Firefighting Equipment and Emergency Evacuation
Fire behaviour and classes
This domain tests fire prevention, correct extinguisher choice, evacuation and the guard's role before firefighters arrive. Know the fire triangle, fire classes and the PASS and RACE sequences.
Core rules
- Keep exits, staircases, hydrants and extinguishers clear. Report blocked exits, damaged doors, missing signage and expired extinguishers.
- Fire classes: A solid materials, B flammable liquids, C gases, D metals; electrical fires need a non-conducting agent such as CO2 or dry powder after isolation if safe.
- Use PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep. Use only on a small fire, with a clear escape route and training.
- Evacuate using RACE: Raise alarm, Alert others, Contain by closing doors if safe, Evacuate to the assembly point. Do not use lifts; stay low in smoke.
- Do roll call and report missing persons to fire officers. Never re-enter.
Worked example
A waste-paper bin burns in an office. The guard raises the alarm, tells occupants to leave, confirms the fire is small and he has a clear exit, then uses a water or ABC extinguisher at the base. Reasoning: class A fire suits water or ABC, but evacuation and alarm come first. If smoke spreads or the fire grows, withdraw.
Traps that cost marks
Water on electrical or oil fires; using a lift; blocking exits with stock; fighting a large fire; re-entering for belongings; and assuming a sprinkler will handle everything.