Crack the 2024 FCTC Written Test: Practice Test for Free & Comprehensive Prep Course
We’re here to help aspiring firefighters with the right knowledge and practice to excel in the FCTC Firefighter test. Our course is tailor-made to help you understand, apply, and master all aspects of the FCTC Written Test.
The FCTC Written Test is designed to assess the fundamental skills every firefighter needs, from mechanical reasoning and mathematical problem-solving to the ability to recall and comprehend technical information.
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Understanding the FCTC Firefighter Test
The Written Test for the FCTC is a mandatory component of the firefighter entry requirements in California. To pursue a career with any of the over 160 fire departments in the state, candidates must successfully complete both this Written Test and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
The FCTC Written Test is a standardized test designed to evaluate the basic skills required for a career in firefighting. The test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions divided across four sections. You will have 2.5 hours to complete the test. The FCTC test contains the following sections:
Recall & Comprehend Verbal and Visual Information
Firefighting is a profession that requires keen observation and a quick understanding of verbal and visual cues. This is why having strong skills in recalling and comprehending verbal and visual information is important if you are appearing for the test.
Let’s look at some sample questions from this section:
Explanation:
The acronym "LAFD" is prominently displayed on the firefighters' helmets. Additionally, when one firefighter turned, the same designation was visible on the back of his jacket.
Mechanical Reasoning
The job of a firefighter often involves understanding and applying mechanical concepts, be it handling firefighting tools or managing dangerous substances. You will be presented with actual firefighting situations, and a question will be posed to assess your mechanical aptitude.
Let’s look at some sample questions from this section:
Explanation:
A pulley system can significantly decrease the amount of effort needed to lift or lower a weight. In this scenario, each pulley you add reduces the effort required by half.
Starting Point: Before any pulleys are used, the effort required is the full weight, which is 200 pounds.
After the First Pulley: If you employ one pulley, the amount of effort you need gets halved. Half of 200 pounds is 100 pounds. This means that after using one pulley, you only need to exert an effort of 100 pounds to manage the weight.
After the Second Pulley: If you add a second pulley to the system, the effort is again reduced by half. Half of the 100 pounds (which was the effort after the first pulley) is 50 pounds.
Thus, when two pulleys are used in succession in this system, the required effort is only 50 pounds. Therefore, the correct answer is (c) 50 pounds.
Explanation:
A ladder that is standing straight up, completely vertical, forms a 90-degree angle with the ground.
On the other hand, if a ladder is lying flat on the ground, it's said to be horizontal and forms a 0-degree angle with the ground.
Analyzing the 60-degree Angle: A 60-degree angle with the ground means that the ladder is only 30 degrees away from being completely vertical (90 - 60 = 30).
Conversely, it's 60 degrees away from being completely horizontal, since the difference is 60.
Given the above, it's evident that the ladder, forming a 60-degree angle with the ground, is closer to the vertical position by a difference of 30 degrees than it is to the horizontal position, which has a difference of 60 degrees.
Mathematical Problems
In the heat of the moment, a firefighter often needs to make quick, accurate calculations, be it estimating the amount of water needed or the time it takes for a fire to spread. Our course is designed to strengthen your mathematical skills, covering a wide range of firefighting-specific mathematical problems. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to practice, helping you to solve mathematical problems accurately and efficiently under time pressure.
Let’s look at some sample questions from this section:
Explanation:
For this type of question, candidates are required to perform simple calculations. Here, we divide the total water supply (500 gallons) by the rate of water use (10 gallons per minute) to find the time. Therefore, 500 divided by 10 equals 50.
The correct answer is (c) 50 minutes.
Explanation:
This question requires basic arithmetic skills. Divide the total amount of water needed (25000 gallons) by the rate of water output (1000 gallons per minute).
This gives 25 minutes, so the correct answer is (b) 25 Minutes.
Recall & Comprehend Technical Information from Written Materials
A firefighter must swiftly comprehend, digest, and retain intricate written guidelines and technical data. It’s essential for you to master the art of note-taking, retention of critical details, and application of information from written sources. This ability is vital for both the examination and your ongoing firefighting profession. This section tests your ability to recall and comprehend technical information from written material.
Let’s look at some sample questions from this section:
Written Passage
Vehicle accidents present unique challenges to firefighters. Beyond the threat of fires, there are also issues of vehicle stability, victim entrapment, and oncoming traffic to consider. Here, we outline the initial step a firefighter should take when they arrive at a vehicle accident scene.
Upon arrival at a vehicle accident, the scene can be disorienting and chaotic. Despite the urgency, the first task isn't to immediately extract trapped victims or even to attend to the injured. Instead, the initial step a firefighter should take is to stabilize the vehicle.
Vehicle stabilization is critical for multiple reasons. Firstly, it prevents the vehicle from causing additional harm, either by moving unexpectedly or by posing a risk to the responders. It also provides a safer environment for victim extraction or any subsequent rescue efforts.
Using vehicle stabilization tools such as step chocks, wedges, or stabilization struts, firefighters can ensure that the vehicle stays in place while they attend to the other tasks at hand. Only after ensuring that the vehicle is secure should they proceed with other tasks such as extraction of victims, calling for medical assistance, and directing traffic away from the scene.
Explanation:
From the provided passage, it is evident that the foremost action for a firefighter upon arriving at a vehicle accident is to stabilize the vehicle. This step is pivotal to ensure safety — it not only mitigates risks associated with the vehicle's unforeseen movement but also sets a safe foundation for all subsequent rescue efforts.
Thus, the answer to the question is: (b) Stabilize the vehicle. Safety, for both the victims and the emergency responders, is the underpinning principle guiding this initial response.
Written Passage
In firefighting, it's not just about fighting the fire - it's about fighting it effectively. Selecting the right extinguishing agent is a critical part of this process. This article discusses the primary principle firefighters should follow when choosing an extinguishing agent for a specific fire.
In firefighting operations, the selection of an extinguishing agent isn't random or merely based on what's readily available, cost-effective, or easy to apply. The primary principle guiding this decision is the type of fire at hand.
Different types of fires, classified according to the materials involved (Class A, B, C, D, or K), require different extinguishing agents to be effectively controlled and extinguished. For example, water might be an effective agent for Class A fires (ordinary combustibles), but it would be dangerous and ineffective for Class B fires (flammable liquids) or Class C fires (energized electrical fires).
The goal is not just to extinguish the fire, but to do it as safely and effectively as possible.
Explanation:
As outlined in the passage, the determining factor in selecting an extinguishing agent isn't its availability, cost-effectiveness, or ease of use. Instead, the choice revolves around the nature or classification of the fire itself. Different fire classes, based on the combustible materials involved, demand specific extinguishing agents for safe and effective control.
Thus, the answer to the posed question is: (c) Choose the agent based on the type of fire. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the fire's characteristics to ensure both the safety of responders and the efficiency of the extinguishing process.
How Our FCTC Prep Course Can Help
With detailed course modules, practice tests, videos, and specialized tips, we prepare you not just to face the exam but to ace it.
Extensive Topic Coverage: 13 well-structured modules, each containing dedicated study guides and topic-wise practice tests for an organized learning experience.
Video-Based Recall Questions: 3 distinct video-oriented questions, crafted to mirror the actual FCTC test format, giving you a preview of what to expect.
Lots of Questions to Practice: Our practice questions are tailored specifically to a firefighter’s role, not generic in nature. In the prep course, we have emphasized on creating more practice questions over theoretical reading material, you get:
- 70 Questions with solutions and explanations on the mathematics required for the job.
- 50 Questions with solutions and explanations on written material recall and comprehension.
- 20 Questions with solutions and explanations on mechanical reasoning.
- 30 questions with solutions on interpreting diagrams and floor maps.
- 120 questions in the full-size quiz
Insider Tips & Tricks: Benefit from expert-driven advice on how to navigate and excel in each section of the exam.
All-Inclusive Practice: Take our full-sized quiz and practice test, tailored to reflect the challenges of the actual FCTC exam, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the real deal.
Adaptable Study Modes: Progress at your desired speed, with convenient online access to all course content.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): FCTC Firefighter Test
How much is the fee for the FCTC Firefighter Written exam?
The testing charge stands at $50, encompassing both the preliminary session and the actual examination.
What is the question count on the FCTC written exam?
The FCTC written test comprises 100 questions, which should be answered within a span of 2.5 hours. The breakdown includes: 20 Questions on Recalling and Understanding Verbal and Visual Data, 25 Questions on Mechanical Reasoning, 20 Mathematical Problems, and 35 Questions on Recalling and Understanding Technical Information from Written material.
What's the minimum required score to pass the FCTC written test?
To succeed in the FCTC Written Test, a score of at least 70% is mandatory. This score qualifies you to be placed on the Selection Eligibility List (SEL), the platform from which fire departments scout for prospective firefighter recruits.
Is the FCTC Test hard?
The FCTC (Firefighter Candidate Testing Center) Test can be challenging, but its difficulty varies depending on your preparation and familiarity with the material. The test is designed to assess critical skills and abilities required for a firefighting career, including verbal and visual comprehension, mechanical reasoning, and basic mathematics. If you have adequately prepared, understand the test format, and practice with similar questions, you may find it manageable. However, without preparation, it can be difficult due to the range of topics and the level of detail required.
What happens if I fail the FCTC Written Test?
If you fail the FCTC Written Test, you can retake it after a mandatory 30-day waiting period. Keep in mind that each retake requires a new registration and payment of the $50 exam fee. Additionally, only your most recent test score will be considered by FCTC and placed on the Selection Eligibility List (SEL), so it’s important to prepare thoroughly before attempting the test again.
How long is the FCTC Test good for
The score from the FCTC Written Test is valid for one year after the date of completion. Only the most recent score will be considered for placement on the Selection Eligibility List (SEL).
Can I use a calculator in the FCTC Written Test?
No, calculators are not allowed during the FCTC Written Test. The test is designed to assess your problem-solving abilities and numerical reasoning skills without the use of external aids. Make sure to practice mental math and problem-solving techniques to be well-prepared for this aspect of the test.
Is there a penalty for guessing on the FCTC Written Test?
No, there is no penalty for guessing on the multiple-choice questions in the FCTC Written Test. It is beneficial to answer every question, even if you’re unsure, rather than leaving any blanks. Make educated guesses when necessary, as you will not lose points for incorrect answers.
In what sequence will I encounter the various sections of the FCTC Written Test?
At the start of the test, candidates have thirty minutes to read an essay packet. Once this time is up, FCTC staff will collect all essay packets. After the video portion of the test, you’ll answer questions about these pre-test essays. Next, you’ll watch two short video scenarios and answer questions about each one immediately after viewing. During the videos, pencils must remain down. Afterward, you’ll open your test booklet and complete the remaining eighty multiple-choice questions, which include topics from the pre-test essays, shorter in-test essays, mechanical reasoning concepts, and mathematical problem-solving.
When and how will I get my FCTC Written Test score?
Your score will be posted to your profile on the official portal and shared with hiring fire agencies within five business days of your test date, though it is often available sooner. For any fire agency requesting the FCTC Statewide Eligibility List (SEL), your score will be considered as if it was received on the day of your test.
What is the best way to prepare for the FCTC Test?
To effectively prepare for the FCTC Test, focus on building a strong foundation in key areas such as verbal and visual comprehension, mechanical reasoning, and basic mathematics. relevant to firefighting. Regular practice with materials that mimic the actual test environment will help you gain familiarity and confidence.
Studies indicate that candidates who engage in focused preparation, including practice tests and study guides, can significantly improve their performance. Our prep course is designed to help you excel in the FCTC Test, offering comprehensive coverage of all test sections and full-length practice exams that closely replicate the real test. These resources will enhance your understanding of the test format, sharpen your test-taking strategies, and boost your chances of success on test day.
