Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

What type of attack involves directing fire streams toward the ceiling or wall to create steam?

1. Direct attack

2. Indirect attack

3. Combination attack

4. Defensive attack

The correct answer is: Indirect attack

The correct response is focused on the indirect attack method, which plays a crucial role in fire suppression. An indirect attack involves directing firefighting streams at overhead surfaces, such as ceilings or walls, which heats the surfaces and converts water into steam. This steam then fills the space and helps smother the fire, effectively reducing the heat and limiting oxygen availability in the area, which assists in controlling or extinguishing the fire. This approach is particularly beneficial in scenarios where the fire is situated in a difficult-to-reach area or is too dangerous for firefighters to approach directly. It is a strategic method that emphasizes safety while still aiming to achieve effective fire suppression by utilizing the properties of steam and heat transfer within the environment.