Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2025

When deciding whether to extinguish a fire, what should you consider?

1. Your training in firefighting

2. The equipment available to you

3. Who is watching you

4. Time of day

The correct answer is: The equipment available to you

When deciding whether to extinguish a fire, considering the equipment available to you is crucial. The right tools can significantly influence the outcome of your efforts to tackle the fire safely and effectively. For example, if a fire is small and can be extinguished using a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water, having access to these tools can allow you to act quickly and prevent a larger disaster. Conversely, if the available equipment is inadequate or not designed for the specific type of fire (e.g., using water on an electrical fire), attempting to put out the fire could escalate the situation and put you and others at greater risk. While training in firefighting is essential and helps inform your decision-making, the actual equipment at hand will dictate what actions are both safe and effective. The presence of onlookers or the time of day may affect your emotional response to the situation but are not direct factors in the practical decision to engage with an active fire. Therefore, the availability of proper firefighting tools is a key factor in making informed choices during a fire emergency.