FDNY F78 Cleaning and Testing of Smoke

FDNY F78 Cleaning and Testing of Smoke Detectors Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a smoke detector?
• To detect carbon monoxide
• To detect smoke from a fire
• To detect gas leaks
• To measure temperature

Rationale: Smoke detectors are designed to sense smoke particles in the air

and alert occupants to potential fire hazards.

• How often should smoke detectors be tested according to FDNY

regulations?

• Every 6 months 1 / 4

• Every 2 years
• At least once a year
• Only when installed

Rationale: Annual testing ensures detectors are functional and capable of

providing early fire warning.

• What is the recommended method for cleaning a smoke detector?
• Washing with water
• Spraying with cleaning chemicals
• Using compressed air or a soft brush
• Soaking in alcohol

Rationale: Detectors contain sensitive electronics; compressed air or a soft

brush removes dust without causing damage.

• Which type of smoke detector is most sensitive to fast-flaming fires?
• Photoelectric
• Ionization
• Dual-sensor
• Heat detector

Rationale: Ionization detectors respond quickly to small combustion particles

from fast-flaming fires.

• Which type of smoke detector is most effective for smoldering fires?
• Ionization
• Photoelectric 2 / 4

• Heat detector
• Carbon monoxide detector

Rationale: Photoelectric detectors are better at sensing larger smoke

particles typical of smoldering fires.

• What should you do if a smoke detector fails a functional test?
• Clean and retest
• Replace the detector
• Ignore it
• Record and report later

Rationale: A failed detector cannot provide early warning and must be

replaced immediately.

• What is the first step before cleaning a smoke detector?
• Remove the cover
• Turn off the power supply or remove the battery
• Spray compressed air
• Test the alarm

Rationale: Turning off power or removing the battery prevents accidental

alarm activation or electrical shock.

• When testing a smoke detector with aerosol smoke, how should it be

applied?

• Directly inside the detector
• Near the detector, not inside 3 / 4

• Spray all over the room
• Only at the ceiling fan

Rationale: Spraying directly inside can damage the sensor; testing should

simulate smoke entering naturally.

• What is the maximum recommended lifespan for most smoke

detectors?

• 5 years
• 10 years
• 10 years or per manufacturer instructions
• 20 years

Rationale: Smoke detectors degrade over time and should be replaced after

10 years or as recommended.

• Which of the following is a sign that a smoke detector may need

cleaning?

• Frequent false alarms
• Accumulation of dust or cobwebs
• Low battery warning
• Location near windows

Rationale: Dust and debris can interfere with sensor operation, causing false

alarms or failure to detect smoke.

• What is the recommended way to test battery-operated smoke

detectors?

• / 4