If you’re looking to become a Fire Guard for Impairment (F-01) in New York City, you’ll need to pass the F-01 Fire Guard exam administered by the FDNY (Fire Department of New York). This certification is essential for security guards, maintenance personnel, and building managers responsible for fire safety when a building’s fire protection systems—such as sprinklers or alarms—are temporarily out of service.
To help you prepare, we’re breaking down exactly what to expect on the exam so you can walk in with confidence and pass on your first attempt.
Exam Format and Requirements
Before diving into the content, let’s go over the basics of the F-01 Fire Guard exam:
✅ Administered by: FDNY
✅ Location: FDNY Headquarters at 9 MetroTech Center, Brooklyn, NY
✅ Cost: $25 application fee
✅ Passing Score: 70% or higher
✅ Test Format: Multiple-choice questions
✅ Time Limit: 1 hour
✅ Required Documents: Valid government-issued photo ID and a letter of recommendation (if applicable)
The exam consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 14 correctly to pass.
What’s Covered on the F-01 Exam?
The F-01 exam tests your knowledge of fire safety procedures and emergency protocols when a building’s fire system is disabled. Here are the key topics you’ll need to master:
- Fire Guard Responsibilities
🔹 Monitoring and patrolling the premises to detect fire hazards
🔹 Maintaining a Fire Watch Logbook
🔹 Reporting hazards and ensuring all emergency exits remain clear
🔹 Properly responding to fire alarms and notifying emergency personnel - Fire Prevention and Hazard Recognition
🔥 Identifying common fire hazards, such as blocked exits or overloaded electrical outlets
🔥 Understanding combustible materials and flammable liquids
🔥 Knowing how to use fire extinguishers and other fire suppression equipment - Emergency Procedures and Evacuation
🚨 Knowing how to respond to fire alarms, smoke, or visible flames
🚨 Assisting in building evacuation procedures
🚨 Understanding different types of fire suppression systems and how they work - FDNY Rules and Regulations
📜 Fire safety laws and FDNY code requirements
📜 Required documentation and reporting procedures
📜 Consequences of failing to maintain fire safety standards
How Difficult is the F-01 Exam?
The F-01 exam isn’t overly complicated, but it does require a solid understanding of fire safety procedures. Many people fail not because the material is hard, but because they underestimate the importance of preparation.
If you’re new to fire safety, certain concepts—such as how to recognize fire hazards or respond during an emergency—may be unfamiliar. That’s why studying real-world scenarios and practicing with sample questions can help you feel prepared on exam day.
Prepare for the F-01 Exam with Star Security Training!
Want to ensure you pass the F-01 Fire Guard exam on your first try? At Star Security Training, we offer both online and in-person preparation courses starting at $55 that are designed to help you:
✔️ Understand key fire safety concepts in simple terms
✔️ Practice with real FDNY-style exam questions
✔️ Feel confident and fully prepared for the test
📍 Location: 1891 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY
💻 Online Classes Available
📞 Call us at 718-773-5000 or visit starsecuritytraining.com for more information!
🔥 Don’t take chances—train with the best and get certified fast! 🔥