Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

Which of the following is a disadvantage of using water?

1. It promotes fire spread

2. It creates ice

3. It is too lightweight

4. It is an electrical insulator

The correct answer is: It creates ice

Using water as a firefighting agent can indeed create ice under certain conditions, particularly in cold weather. This can pose significant hazards to firefighters and anyone in the vicinity of the fire scene. The formation of ice can lead to slippery surfaces that increase the risk of slips and falls, complicating rescue efforts or the execution of firefighting tactics. Additionally, ice can impede access to areas needing attention and may hinder the operation of firefighting equipment. Other potential disadvantages of water include its ability to promote fire spread in certain situations, especially with flammable liquids, by dispersing burning material or causing a reaction. Thus, while creating ice is a notable concern, it is one of several factors that must be taken into account when considering the use of water in firefighting operations.