Texas Fire Alarm License Practice Test

Which characteristic should be present in a safe fire alarm cable?

1. High smoke production

2. Low smoke production

3. No fire resistance

4. Non-conductive material

The correct answer is: Low smoke production

A safe fire alarm cable should ideally exhibit low smoke production. This characteristic is crucial because, in the event of a fire, the smoke generated can severely impact visibility and air quality, posing additional hazards to occupants and first responders. Low smoke production ensures that, if the cable does catch fire, it will emit less smoke, making evacuation safer and enabling better visibility for rescue operations. Prioritizing low smoke production aligns with fire safety codes and standards, which aim to minimize hazards stemming from smoke inhalation and obstruction during an emergency. This characteristic is particularly relevant in enclosed environments such as commercial buildings and residential complexes where rapid evacuation may be necessary.