Cooperative Personnel Services Firefighter (CPS) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Firefighter Exam Questions and Study Guide

The presence of combustible materials near ignition sources is a significant fire hazard because it directly relates to the fire triangle, which consists of heat, fuel, and oxygen. When combustible materials—such as paper, wood, or aerosol cans—are located close to sources of ignition like open flames, sparks, or even hot surfaces, the risk of fire substantially increases. If an ignition source comes into contact with or generates enough heat to ignite the combustible materials, a fire can start.

This scenario illustrates how the arrangement and proximity of materials can create dangerous conditions. Proper fire safety protocols typically involve not only storing combustible materials away from ignition sources but also ensuring that environments are monitored to prevent the clustering of these elements. In firefighting and prevention, understanding the relationship between heat, fuel, and oxygen is crucial for identifying and mitigating risks effectively.