Science & STEM

RACE Acronym Quiz: Fire Safety and PASS Extinguisher Steps

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This quiz helps you practice the RACE acronym and PASS extinguisher steps so you can act quickly and safely. When you are done, check your knowledge with the osha portable fire extinguisher quiz, try a pass fire extinguisher quiz for common scenarios, or review routine fire extinguisher maintenance to keep equipment ready.

Paper art fire safety elements on golden yellow background promoting RACE and PASS fire prevention safety quiz.
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1What does the R stand for in the RACE fire safety acronym?
2What does the A stand for in the PASS fire extinguisher technique?
3Which step comes third in the RACE acronym?
4What is the first step in the PASS fire extinguisher sequence?
5In the PASS technique, what does the first S represent?
6What is the purpose of the Contain step in RACE?
7In PASS, what does the final S stand for?
8Which stage of RACE involves using the PASS technique to put out a small fire?
9Which class of fire involves flammable liquids like gasoline or oil?
10Which extinguisher type is recommended for electrical fires?
11What is the correct sequence of steps in the PASS technique?
12Approximately how far should you stand from a fire when using a dry chemical extinguisher?
13During the Alarm step of RACE, who should you notify first?
14What is the primary objective of the Rescue step in RACE?
15In RACE, which step directly precedes attempting to extinguish a fire?
16Why should you aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire rather than the flames?
17According to NFPA 10, how often should portable fire extinguishers receive a visual inspection?
18Why is it important to keep your back to an exit when using a fire extinguisher?
19What is a limitation of water-based fire extinguishers?
20Why must you verify the fire extinguisher type before use?
21What can happen if you stand too close to the fire when discharging an extinguisher?
22Why should you discharge the extinguisher in a sweeping motion?
23What does an ABC rating on a dry chemical fire extinguisher indicate?
24Why is a post-use inspection critical after operating a fire extinguisher?
25Under NFPA 10, what is the maximum travel distance to a portable fire extinguisher in ordinary hazard areas?
Learning Goals

Study Outcomes

  1. Define RACE -

    Understand what each letter in the acronym RACE (Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish) stands for and its role in fire emergency response.

  2. Explain PASS -

    Describe the four actions of the PASS fire extinguisher safety quiz method - Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep - to operate extinguishers correctly.

  3. Apply the Sequence -

    Demonstrate how to combine RACE and PASS steps effectively during a simulated fire scenario for swift and safe intervention.

  4. Identify Hazards -

    Recognize common fire risks and determine when activating RACE & PASS protocols is necessary to prevent escalation.

  5. Evaluate Scenarios -

    Assess quiz-based situations to choose the correct sequence of actions, reinforcing decision-making under pressure.

  6. Reinforce Safety Knowledge -

    Use the scored fire safety quiz to test retention of the acronym race and pass steps and boost overall readiness.

Study Guide

Cheat Sheet

  1. Decode RACE -

    RACE stands for Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish (or Evacuate) and is the core of the acronym race and pass approach. This clear sequence ensures you prioritize human safety - rescue anyone in danger, sound the alarm, contain the fire by closing doors, and only then attempt to extinguish or evacuate. According to NFPA 101, following RACE steps significantly reduces casualties during emergencies.

  2. Apply PASS Correctly -

    The PASS method - Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep - guides effective extinguisher use under pressure and features prominently in fire extinguisher safety quizzes. Example: Pull the pin to break the seal, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever fully, and Sweep side to side until the flames subside (NFPA 10). Regular drills embed this sequence so it becomes second nature during real incidents.

  3. Remember the Fire Triangle -

    Understanding the fire triangle (heat, fuel, oxygen) is a staple question in fire safety quizzes; removing one component halts combustion. Mnemonic "FOH" (Fuel, Oxygen, Heat) helps you recall which element to target. Both OSHA and NFPA highlight this model as the basis for selecting safe suppression tactics.

  4. Match Extinguisher Classes -

    Know your classes: A for ordinary combustibles, B for flammable liquids, C for electrical fires, D for combustible metals, and K for kitchen oils (NFPA 10). Color-coded labels or pictograms on extinguishers help you instantly identify the right tool for the job. Practicing this recognition reduces costly mistakes under stress.

  5. Perform Regular Inspections -

    OSHA and NFPA 10 require monthly visual checks and annual professional maintenance to keep extinguishers operational. Inspect gauges, tamper seals, and ensure tags are current; record each check on the unit's label. Consistent upkeep is your best defense for a fire safety quiz and real-life readiness.

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Michael HodgeEdTech Product Lead & Assessment Design SpecialistQuiz Maker
Updated Feb 22, 2026