Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

What method is commonly used to create positive pressure in a fire ventilation strategy?

1. Natural Ventilation

2. Smoke Extraction

3. Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)

4. Mechanical Airflow

The correct answer is: Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV)

Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) is a method used to create positive pressure within a structure, which helps to control smoke and heat during firefighting operations. This technique involves using fans or blowers to introduce a large volume of air into a designated area, typically through a point of entry such as a door or window. The main goal of PPV is to push smoke and hot gases out of the building while improving visibility and creating a safer environment for both firefighters and potential victims. By generating positive pressure, PPV can effectively manage the flow of smoke, directing it towards designated exits, and enhancing the efficiency of fire suppression efforts. Other methods, such as natural ventilation, generally rely on existing environmental conditions and do not actively create pressure, nor do they have the same level of control over airflow. Smoke extraction focuses on removing smoke from the environment but is not a proactive method to enhance positive pressure. Mechanical airflow, in a general sense, refers to the use of machines to move air, but it does not specifically imply the controlled application needed for effective PPV in firefighting scenarios. This highlights why Positive Pressure Ventilation is recognized as the preferred method for intentionally creating positive pressure during fire operations.