FDNY S78 Cleaning Testing of Smoke

FDNY S78 Cleaning & Testing of Smoke Detectors Citywide Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of smoke detectors in residential

buildings?

• To reduce insurance premiums
• To detect smoke and alert occupants to potential fire
• To control building ventilation
• To monitor carbon monoxide

Rationale: Smoke detectors are designed to detect the presence of smoke

and alert occupants to potential fire, providing early warning for safety.

• How often should smoke detectors be tested according to FDNY

guidelines? 1 / 4

• Once a year
• Once every six months
• Monthly
• Weekly

Rationale: Regular monthly testing ensures that smoke detectors are

functional and can provide early warning in the event of a fire.

• What is the first step before cleaning a smoke detector?
• Spray cleaning solution directly
• Turn off the power or remove the battery
• Remove the smoke detector cover
• Vacuum the surrounding area

Rationale: Power should be disconnected to prevent false alarms or

electrical hazards during cleaning.

• What type of vacuum is recommended for cleaning smoke detectors?
• Standard household vacuum
• Low-pressure vacuum
• High-suction industrial vacuum
• Wet/dry shop vacuum

Rationale: A low-pressure vacuum safely removes dust without damaging

sensitive smoke detector components.

• What should you avoid when cleaning the inside of a smoke detector?
• Dusting with a soft brush 2 / 4

• Using water or liquid cleaners
• Removing dust with compressed air
• Wiping exterior surfaces

Rationale: Liquid can damage the internal components and impair detector

function.

• What is the maximum recommended interval for replacing a smoke

detector battery?

• Every 6 months
• Every 3 years
• Annually
• Every 2 years

Rationale: Batteries should be replaced annually to ensure detectors

function reliably.

• In addition to cleaning, what is a required step during smoke detector

maintenance?

• Painting the unit
• Installing a new cover
• Testing the alarm
• Tightening screws only

Rationale: Testing ensures that the unit functions correctly after cleaning

and maintenance. 3 / 4

• What is the proper method for testing a smoke detector?
• Exposing it to a real fire
• Using the manufacturer’s test button
• Spraying smoke from a candle
• Shaking the detector

Rationale: The test button simulates the presence of smoke without

creating a hazard.

• Which type of smoke detector responds more quickly to smoldering

fires?

• Ionization
• Photoelectric
• Heat detector
• Carbon monoxide detector

Rationale: Photoelectric detectors are more responsive to smoldering fires,

which produce more visible smoke.

• What is the primary advantage of an ionization smoke detector?
• Detects smoldering fires faster
• Detects flaming fires quickly
• No maintenance required
• Works without batteries

Rationale: Ionization detectors are more sensitive to fast-flaming fires.

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