Series 4-5: Fire Extinguishers

The “Fire Extinguishers” section of the Alberta School Bus Knowledge Test evaluates a driver’s understanding of fire safety and proper use of fire extinguishers.

Alberta School Bus Test - SERIES 4-5: Fire Extinguishers

1 / 12

For maximum protection when using an extinguisher, where should you try to position yourself?

Upwind from the fire

With your back to the fire

Directly over the fire

Downwind from the fire

2 / 12

When using a fire extinguisher, what must you ensure in relation to your escape route?

Always stand with the exit behind the fire

Turn your back on the exit to face the fire

Block the exit with the extinguisher

Don’t allow the flames to come between you and the exit

3 / 12

From what distance should you aim the discharge apparatus at the base of the fire?

Any distance, it does not matter

Less than half a metre away

Approximately two to three metres (six to eight feet) away

Ten metres away

4 / 12

What is the first step in operating a fire extinguisher on the bus?

Remove it from the bracket

Sweep side to side

Aim at the fire

Squeeze the handle

5 / 12

How often is it advisable to remove the fire extinguisher from its bracket and shake it during pre-trip inspections?

Only after use

Once a month

Every day

Once a week

6 / 12

Approximately how long will a typical school bus dry chemical extinguisher take to fully discharge?

Two to three seconds

Twenty to thirty seconds

One to two minutes

Eight to ten seconds

7 / 12

What must be done after a fire extinguisher has been discharged?

Refill it yourself

Leave it on the floor near the driver

Put it back in the bracket, even if empty

Replace it with a fully charged extinguisher before the bus is used again

8 / 12

Where should you direct the discharge of the extinguisher when fighting a fire?

Away from the fire

At the top of the flames

At the base of the fire

Above the fire

9 / 12

What is the typical range of a dry chemical extinguisher carried on a school bus?

One to two metres

Four to five metres

Eight to ten metres

Ten to twelve metres

10 / 12

In the PASS acronym for extinguisher use, what does the “P” stand for?

Pull the pin

Press the handle

Position yourself downwind

Prevent the fire

11 / 12

After a fire appears to be out, what should you do?

Continue watching for flashback until the area has completely cooled

Assume it is safe and resume normal operations

Spray water on the area and leave

Turn your back and leave immediately

12 / 12

What type of fire extinguisher is used on a school bus?

Carbon dioxide extinguisher

Water extinguisher

Dry chemical extinguisher

Foam extinguisher

Your score is

Drivers are required to know the types of extinguishers approved for school buses, how to inspect them for readiness, and the correct procedures for using them during an emergency. The test also covers safe evacuation procedures and the importance of remaining calm in a fire situation. Mastery of this section ensures drivers can respond quickly and efficiently to a fire, minimizing risks to students and preventing the spread of fire on or near the school bus.