CFPS NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Free Practice Exam Questions (2025 Updated)

The use of an exhaust to an abatement system during the large-scale tests made the test results difficult to interpret for use in field applications. The exhaust system was used to reduce the environmental impact of the tests, but it also altered the natural buoyancy-driven flow of the smoke and heat through the vents and draft curtains. This created a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the test building, which affected the performance of the sprinklers, vents, and draft curtains. Therefore, the test results may not accurately reflect the conditions that would occur in real buildings without an exhaust system.

References: Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 8, Section 8.3.11; Sprinkler, Smoke and Heat Vent, Draft Curtain Interaction: Large Scale Experiments and Modeling2.

Response Time Index (RTI) is a measure of thermal sensitivity of a sprinkler’s activation. It indicates how quickly the sprinkler responds to the heat from a fire. RTI is calculated by using the operating time, operating temperature, air temperature, air velocity, and conductivity factor of the sprinkler. RTI is independent of the gas velocity but depends on the properties of the sprinkler head such as mass, specific heat capacity and surface area of the thermal sensing element. RTI is used to classify sprinklers into fast response or standard response categories.

References:The Basics of Sprinkler Thermal Characteristics | NFPA;Sprinkler Characteristics According to NFPA 13 - Fire Protection …;Response time index (RTI) - Oil and Gas Drilling Glossary;RESPONSE TIME INDEX OF SPRINKLERS - Department of Building Environment …

The maximum allowable travel distance from any part of a smoke compartment to the door in a smoke barrier in a new health care facility is 200 ft. (60 m). This is based on NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, 2018 Edition, Chapter 18, Section 18.3.7.3, which states that “the travel distance from any point in a smoke compartment to reach a door in the required smoke barrier shall not exceed 200 ft (61 m).” A smoke compartment is a space within a building that is enclosed by smoke barriers on all sides, including the top and bottom. A smoke barrier is a continuous membrane, or a combination of materials, that is designed to restrict the movement of smoke.A smoke barrier door is a door assembly that is installed in a smoke barrier to allow access between smoke compartments123

79% of fire departments surveyed participate in the delivery of emergency medical services (EMS).This is based on the NFPA report “US Fire Department Profile 2020”1, which states that nationwide, 37% of fire departments provided no EMS, 46% provided basic life support (BLS), and 17% provided advanced life support (ALS). Therefore, the percentage of fire departments that provided either BLS or ALS is 46% + 17% = 63%. However, this does not include fire departments that provided EMS through a third-party contract or agreement.According to the NFPA fire service survey from 2018–20202, 16% of fire departments reported having such an arrangement. Therefore, the percentage of fire departments that participated in the delivery of EMS in some form is 63% + 16% = 79%.References:

NFPA report - U.S.fire department profile3

US Fire Department Profile 2020 Supporting Tables2

According to NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3, the maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) of a nonliquified oxidizing gas per control area in an unsprinklered area is 2000 ft3 (56 m3) when stored in a gas cabinet. This quantity can be increased by 100% if the area is sprinklered or by 300% if the area is also provided with a gas detection system. A gas cabinet is a ventilated enclosure for the storage of one or more compressed gas containers that provides a method of control for potential leakage or fire exposure hazards [NFPA 400,3.3.32].References:NFPA 400, Table 5.2.1.1.3;NFPA 400, 3.3.32;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.1;NFPA 400, 5.2.1.1.3.2.

OSHA regulation 1910.110 addresses storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This regulation covers the general requirements for the design, construction, installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance of LPG systems, including containers, piping, valves, fittings, regulators, burners, and appliances. The regulation also specifies the safety precautions and procedures for the prevention of fire and explosion hazards involving LPG. The regulation applies to all employers who store, handle, or use LPG in their workplaces.References:

OSHA: 1910.110 - Storage and handling of liquefied petroleum gases1

Nebula Safety: Storage & Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPGs)2

Scenario groupings is a data analysis approach that provides the broadest perspective of a fire problem by identifying and comparing different types of fire incidents based on their characteristics, such as ignition source, fuel, location, time, and outcome. This approach can help reveal patterns, trends, and relationships among fire scenarios and support fire prevention and protection strategies.References:Fire Data Analysis Handbook, Chapter 5: Scenario Groupings; [Fire Protection Handbook], Section 2, Chapter 3: Fire Data Collection and Analysis.

According to NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 Edition, Article 230.71(A), each service shall have only one disconnecting means unless the requirements of 230.71(B) are met, which provide four specific service configurations. In each configuration, there shall be not more than six switches or sets of circuit breakers, or acombination of not more than six switches and sets of circuit breakers, per service grouped in any one location. Therefore, the maximum number of additional switches or circuit breakers allowed for a separate service is six.References:

NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 2020 Edition, Article 230.71(A) and (B)12

ElectricalLicenseRenewal.com, 230.71 Maximum Number of Disconnects3

According to the CDC, exposure to hydrogen fluoride at concentrations of less than 50 ppm for two minutes may cause mild eye and upper respiratory tract irritation. The severity of the effects depends on the concentration, duration, and route of exposure, as well as the individual’s susceptibility. Higher concentrations or longer exposures can cause more serious health effects, such as pulmonary edema, skin burns, or systemic toxicity.References:CDC | Facts About Hydrogen Fluoride (Hydrofluoric Acid); [Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) | Medical Management Guidelines | Toxic Substance Portal | ATSDR]2; [Hydrogen Fluoride and Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) - GOV.UK]3.

The answer is A. According to NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, 2021 Edition, Chapter 14, lockers used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids shall not exceed 1500 ft2 (139 m2) gross floor area. This limit applies to both indoor and outdoor lockers.Lockers are defined as self-contained, prefabricated structures that are designed to store hazardous materials and that are equipped with fire protection features, such as fire-resistance-rated walls, doors, and roofs, automatic sprinklers, spill containment, and ventilation12

valve at the inspector’s test connection.

For wet-pipe automatic sprinkler systems, the only proper way to test the operation of a vane-type water flow alarm initiating device is to open the valve at the inspector’s test connection. This is a small valve that is located at the end of a pipe that is connected to the sprinkler system, usually at the most remote or highest point. The inspector’s test connection simulates the flow of a single sprinkler head and activates the vane-type water flow switch, which in turn triggers the fire alarm panel and the external alarm devices.Opening the valve at the inspector’s test connection also allows the water to drain from the system, preventing corrosion and freezing1234

Opening the main (2 in. diameter) drain is not a proper way to test the operation of a vane-type water flow alarm initiating device, because it does not create enough flow to activate the switch. The main drain is used to drain the entire sprinkler system for maintenance or repair purposes, and it is usually located at the main riser or the fire department connection.Opening the main drain may also cause a pressure drop in the system, which could affect the performance of the sprinklers1234

Opening the alarm test by-pass valve at the system’s main riser is not a proper way to test the operation of a vane-type water flow alarm initiating device, because it does not simulate the actual flow of a sprinkler head. The alarm test by-pass valve is used to test the operation of the external alarm devices, such as the water motor gong or the electric bell, without activating the fire alarm panel. The alarm test by-pass valve is usually located near the alarm check valve or the water flow switch, and it allows water to flow through a small orifice to the alarm devices.Opening the alarm test by-pass valve does not create enough flow to activate the vane-type water flow switch1234

Opening the check valve from the city connection is not a proper way to test the operation of a vane-type water flow alarm initiating device, because it does not create any flow in the sprinkler system. The check valve from the city connection is used to prevent the backflow of water from the sprinkler system to the city water supply, and it is usually located at the fire department connection or the main riser.Opening the check valvefrom the city connection does not affect the water flow in the sprinkler system, and it does not activate the vane-type water flow switch1234

References:

Fire Sprinkler Flow Switch & Tamper Switch Inspection & Maintenance3

Sprinkler System Water Flow Device Testing - ORR Protection2

VSR-AT Auto-Test Waterflow Alarm Switch | Potter Electric4

WFDNA Series Vane-type Waterflow Detectors - Steel Fire Equipment5

Cellulose nitrate products begin to decompose at about 300 °F (150 °C). This is the temperature at which the nitrate ester bonds start to break down and release nitric acid, which further catalyzes the decomposition. The decomposition temperature depends on the nitrogen content, the stabilizers, and the external heating rate of the cellulose nitrate. Higher nitrogen content, lower stabilizer concentration, and faster heating rate lower the decomposition temperature and increase the risk of thermal runaway.

References:Nitrocellulose - Wikipedia;Comparative analysis of stable decomposition and combustion kinetics of nitrated cellulose;Degradation of aged nitrocellulose investigated by thermal analysis methods;Nitrocellulose;Effect of stabilizers and nitrogen content on thermal properties of nitrocellulose

The correct answer is B. In wide-open spaces, the sound pressure level (SPL) decreases by 6 decibels (dB) every time the distance from the source is doubled. This is known as the inverse square law of sound propagation, which states that the intensity of sound is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source.For example, if the SPL at 1 meter from the source is 100 dB, then the SPL at 2 meters from the source is 94 dB, and the SPL at 4 meters from the source is 88 dB123

Class A roof coverings are the most effective in preventing the spread of fires from flying brands. Flying brands are burning embers or pieces of combustible material that are carried by the wind and can ignite other combustible materials or structures. Class A roof coverings are tested to withstand severe fire exposure from simulated fire sources, such as large burning brands, and do not produce flying brands themselves. Class A roof coverings include materials such as asphalt shingles, metal sheets, clay or concrete tiles, slate, and some types of synthetic membranes12. References:

Class A, B, and C Roof Ratings - UL

Fire-Resistant Roofs - Fire Safe Marin

NFPA 484: Standard for Combustible Metals, 2020 Edition, provides requirements for the storage and handling of aluminum powders, flakes, and pastes. This standard covers the production, processing, finishing, handling, recycling, storage, and use of all metals and alloys that are in a form capable of combustion or explosion. It also covers operations where metal or metal alloys are subjected to processing or finishing operations that produce combustible powder or dust.NFPA 484 includes specific chapters for various metals and alloys, including aluminum and aluminum alloys12

References:

NFPA 484: Standard for Combustible Metals

NFPA 651: Standard for the Machining and Finishing of Aluminum and the …

The minimum pipe diameter size for direct discharge of steam inside a water tank is 2 in. (50 mm), according to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. This is to prevent water hammer, noise, and vibration caused by the rapid condensation of steam when it contacts the water. The pipe should also be equipped with a check valve to prevent backflow of water into the steam source.References: NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2023 Edition, Chapter 8, Section 8.16.4.5.3; NFPA Fire Protection Handbook, 21st Edition, Chapter 14, Section 14.3.4.2.

An as built plan review is a type of plan review that may provide information about a modification such as the removal of an abandoned underground flammable liquid tank. An as built plan review is conducted after the construction or alteration of a building or system is completed and before the final approval or acceptance by the AHJ. An as built plan review verifies that the building or system conforms to the approved plans and specifications and complies with the applicable codes and standards. An as built plan review may also identify any changes or deviations from the original plans that occurred during the construction or alteration process, such as the removal of an underground tank.References:

NFPA 1: Fire Code, 2018 Edition, Section 1.12.8.1.11

Fire Protection Handbook, 20th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.3.42

The maximum allowable number of clients for a family day-care home varies by state and territory, but generally ranges from four to six children unrelated to the operator. A family day-care home is a facility in which a small group of children receive child care services in the provider’s own home, such as a house, apartment, or condo unit1. To ensure a safe care environment, states and territories use child care licensing regulations to limit the number of children, as well as the number of infants and toddlers, that can receive care in a family day-care home1. Some states and territories may also offer certification or registration to help ensure some basic health and safety standards in certain home-based child care programs1. To learn more about how your state or territory regulates family day-care homes, you can visit the child care consumer education website and child care resource and referral agency for your state or territory1. References:

Family Child Care Homes | Childcare.gov

The removal of flammable vapors by displacement for cleaning a storage tank can be accomplished by displacement with air, inert gas, and water. Water is a common method of displacing flammable vapors from tanks, as it is readily available, inexpensive, and non-reactive with most fuels. Water can be sprayed into the tank to create a water seal that prevents the vapors from escaping and reduces the oxygen concentration in the tank. Water can also be used to rinse the tank walls and remove any residual fuel. However, water displacement may not be suitable for some tanks that contain water-sensitive or water-soluble fuels, or for tanks that have limited drainage or disposal facilities.

References:ust permanent closure requirements - Nevada;A Guide to Safety in Confined Spaces - CDC Stacks;Fire Explosion Prevention – Visual Encyclopedia of Chemical Engineering …