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

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

Two to three seconds

Eight to ten seconds

One to two minutes

Twenty to thirty seconds

2 / 12

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

Assume it is safe and resume normal operations

Spray water on the area and leave

Turn your back and leave immediately

Continue watching for flashback until the area has completely cooled

3 / 12

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

One to two metres

Four to five metres

Ten to twelve metres

Eight to ten metres

4 / 12

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

Ten metres away

Less than half a metre away

Any distance, it does not matter

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

5 / 12

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

Once a month

Once a week

Every day

Only after use

6 / 12

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

At the top of the flames

At the base of the fire

Above the fire

Away from the fire

7 / 12

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

Foam extinguisher

Dry chemical extinguisher

Water extinguisher

Carbon dioxide extinguisher

8 / 12

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

Turn your back on the exit to face the fire

Always stand with the exit behind the fire

Block the exit with the extinguisher

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

9 / 12

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

Position yourself downwind

Press the handle

Pull the pin

Prevent the fire

10 / 12

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

Aim at the fire

Remove it from the bracket

Sweep side to side

Squeeze the handle

11 / 12

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

Put it back in the bracket, even if empty

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

Leave it on the floor near the driver

Refill it yourself

12 / 12

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

Downwind from the fire

With your back to the fire

Directly over the fire

Upwind from the fire

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.