Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Fire Service Vehicle Operator Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• When operating a fire apparatus, who has the primary responsibility for

the safe operation of the vehicle?

• The company officer
• The jurisdiction
• The driver/operator
• The dispatch center

The driver/operator maintains direct control of the apparatus and is responsible for its safe operation at all times.

• What is the most effective way to prevent apparatus rollovers during

emergency response? 1 / 4

• Increase speed on curves
• Reduce speed before entering a curve
• Shift to a higher gear in curves
• Brake hard while turning

Reducing speed before curves maintains stability and prevents lateral weight shift leading to rollovers.

• NFPA 1451 primarily covers which subject?
• Fire hose testing
• Driver/operator training programs
• Pump operations
• Vehicle maintenance

NFPA 1451 sets standards for creating and maintaining fire department driver/operator training programs.

• When approaching an intersection with a red light during emergency

response, the driver must:

• Proceed without stopping
• Slow down and continue
• Come to a complete stop and ensure it is safe to proceed
• Turn off warning lights

Stopping ensures the driver confirms all traffic has yielded, reducing collision risk at high-hazard intersections.

• The loading of hose on a moving apparatus may occur only when: 2 / 4

• At full speed
• Under controlled conditions and at a speed of 5 mph or less
• At any safe speed
• The hose bed is full

NFPA standards permit hose loading on a slowly moving apparatus only under strict safety conditions.

6. The purpose of using a spotter when backing an apparatus is to:

• Reduce response time
• Protect personnel and property from backing accidents
• Avoid mechanical wear
• Replace mirrors

Spotters provide visual guidance in blind areas, reducing backing collisions.

• When should tire pressure on fire apparatus be checked?
• Weekly
• Only before long-distance travel
• Daily or per departmental policy
• Only when low

Daily checks ensure safe handling and prevent failures under load.

8. Engine braking (Jake brake) should NOT be used on:

• Dry pavement
• Slippery surfaces
• Downhill grades 3 / 4

• Long straight roads

On slick surfaces, engine braking can cause loss of traction leading to skidding.

• The recommended minimum following distance for emergency vehicles

is:

• One second
• Two seconds
• Three seconds
• Four seconds or more

Increased following distance compensates for heavy vehicle weight and longer stopping distances.

10. Drivers should begin slowing the apparatus when approaching:

• Wide intersections
• Green lights
• Straight roads
• Stopped traffic, intersections, or hazards

Early speed reduction provides more reaction time and reduces collision potential.

• When performing a brake test, the apparatus should not lose more

than how many psi per minute with brakes released (air brakes)?

• / 4