Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Practice Exam

What does a bursting sprinkler bulb indicate?

1. Heat

2. Fire

3. Pressure

4. Humidity

The correct answer is: Heat

A bursting sprinkler bulb indicates the presence of heat. Sprinkler systems are designed to activate when a certain temperature threshold is reached, which is typically indicative of a fire. The bulb, filled with a liquid that expands when heated, will burst and release water to cool down the area and help extinguish the flames. This action is crucial in preventing the spread of fire and protecting both property and lives. Understanding that the bulb’s bursting is a response to heat helps in recognizing the critical function of sprinkler systems in fire suppression. The temperature at which the bulb bursts is predetermined based on the rating of the sprinkler head, allowing for effective activation in varying fire scenarios.