Philly Firefighter key terms

A conclusion drawn from written material by combining stated facts with logic, even though the conclusion is not directly written. Test passages often ask what an author implies rather than states.

Finding the central point a paragraph or passage is built around, usually stated in a topic sentence or implied by the supporting details. Answers to these questions must cover the whole passage, not one detail.

A question that asks for a specific fact, name, number, or step stated directly in a reading passage. The answer is located by scanning the text rather than by reasoning beyond it.

Solving for how fast work is done, such as gallons per minute or feet per second, by dividing a quantity by time. Fire-service math problems frequently ask for flow or travel rates.

Using the relationship between two quantities that change together at a constant ratio, such as hose pressure rising with length. Problems are solved by setting up equivalent ratios and solving for the unknown.

Changing a measurement from one unit to another, such as feet to meters or minutes to seconds, by multiplying by a known conversion factor. Errors usually come from multiplying when division is required.

Mentally rotating, folding, or arranging objects to judge how they fit together. Firefighter written tests use it to predict how equipment, hose layouts, or building spaces will align.

Understanding how basic physical systems behave, including levers, pulleys, gears, and fluid pressure. Questions ask which arrangement requires less force or how a change in one part affects the system.

Interpreting symbols, scale, direction, and layout from a drawing such as a floor plan or street map. Candidates must locate features and determine routes or distances from the graphic.

A timed CPAT-style event in which the candidate walks a stair-climbing machine while wearing a weighted vest. It measures leg endurance and cardiovascular capacity and is typically the first event, done without stopping.

A timed event requiring the candidate to drag a charged or uncharged hose line a set distance, often around a drum and then to a finish marker. It tests grip, leg drive, and the ability to keep moving under load.

A timed event in which the candidate picks up and carries weighted tools such as saws or canisters through a marked course and sets them down inside a designated area. It tests grip strength, balance, and controlled placement.

A timed event where the candidate raises a ground ladder to a wall and extends it using a hand-over-hand rope pull, then lowers it under control. It tests upper-body strength, coordination, and safe ladder handling.

A timed event using a sled or weighted device struck with a prop to simulate driving a forcible entry tool. It measures power, accuracy, and repeated effort while maintaining a stable stance.

A timed crawl through a confined, darkened maze while wearing gear, testing comfort in tight spaces, orientation, and controlled movement. Candidates must stay low and follow the designated path without panic.

A timed event in which the candidate drags a weighted mannequin or sled a set distance using a harness or handle. It tests back and leg strength and the technique of keeping the load close while moving backward.

A timed event using a pike pole or similar prop to push up and pull down a weighted ceiling device repeatedly. It measures shoulder, back, and grip endurance along with controlled rhythm.

A garment worn during physical ability testing that adds a fixed amount of weight to simulate turnout gear and SCBA. It must be worn as directed for the entire event sequence.

The pre-test briefing and walk-through that explains event order, timing rules, safety stops, and disqualifying actions. Candidates should listen for instructions on how to perform each event correctly.

The four elements needed for sustained flaming combustion: fuel, oxygen, heat, and an uninhibited chemical chain reaction. Removing any one element extinguishes the fire, which is the basis of extinguishment tactics.

A sudden transition in which all exposed combustible surfaces in a compartment ignite nearly at once because heat has built up to ignition levels. It is a sign of a ventilation-limited fire and a major threat to interior crews.

A violent explosion of fire gases caused when oxygen suddenly enters an oxygen-starved, overheated compartment. Warning signs include smoke pulsing from openings, darkening windows, and inward air movement.

The ensemble of turnout coat, pants, helmet, hood, gloves, and boots designed to protect the firefighter from heat, flame, and injury. It is the last line of defense and must be worn properly closed and fastened.

A backpack-mounted air supply with a facepiece, regulator, and cylinder that lets a firefighter breathe safely in smoke and toxic atmospheres. Users must monitor air remaining and exit before the low-air alarm sounds.

Tracking and conserving breathing air so a firefighter can complete the assignment and exit before the cylinder empties. It includes knowing entry pressure, working time, and the point at which to turn back.

The planned release of heat, smoke, and fire gases from a structure to improve visibility and conditions for interior crews. It must be coordinated with attack, because uncoordinated ventilation can intensify fire spread.

The system that delivers water to the fireground, including hydrants, supply hose, engines, and relay or tanker operations. Adequate supply is established before or alongside fire attack.

A length of fire hose connected to a water source and nozzle, sized for the needed flow. Attack lines are advanced toward the fire, while supply lines move large volumes from the source to the pump.

The pressure at the nozzle needed to produce an effective fire stream, commonly about 50 psi for a handline with a fog nozzle and 100 psi for a smooth-bore nozzle. Pump pressure must overcome friction loss and elevation.

Positioning a ladder at the correct angle, distance from the building, and height for rescue or access, with the tip reaching the sill or roof and the base secured. Proper placement allows safe climbing and escape.

Gaining access through a locked or blocked door, window, or wall using tools such as a Halligan bar, axe, or ram. The goal is controlled entry with minimal damage and no injury to occupants behind the opening.

The rule that a force applied at a distance from a pivot produces a turning effect that can be increased by lengthening the lever or moving the pivot. Firefighters use it with pry bars, axes, and rams.

A rapid, systematic sweep of the fire area and likely occupied spaces to find and remove victims, done early and often before the fire is fully controlled. It prioritizes speed and covers sleeping areas and exits.

A thorough, methodical search of the entire structure conducted after the fire is under control and conditions improve. It confirms that no victims remain and covers areas missed during the primary search.

A radio message that interrupts normal transmissions to report a firefighter in distress, a missing member, or an imminent hazard. It tells all units to clear the channel and respond to the emergency.

A safety requirement that at least two firefighters remain outside the hazard area, ready to rescue, whenever two or more are working inside. The outside crew must be equipped and able to act immediately.

The formal line of authority from the incident commander down through officers to individual firefighters. It keeps orders clear and avoids conflicting direction, so concerns should go through the chain unless emergency traffic is needed.

Coordinating actions and sharing workload with crew members so tasks are completed safely and efficiently. It includes watching your partner's air, position, and condition, and speaking up when something is wrong.

The ongoing understanding of what is happening around you, including fire behavior, crew location, and changing hazards. It requires continuous observation and updating of the mental picture rather than relying on first impressions.

Doing the honest and correct thing even when no one is watching, including truthful reporting, refusing to falsify records, and respecting public trust. It is a core expectation for firefighters on and off duty.

Representing the department respectfully when dealing with residents, including listening, explaining actions calmly, and treating people fairly regardless of background. These contacts shape public trust and cooperation.