Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Course Number:
FP 137
Course Title:
Fire Protection Systems
Credit Hours:
Lecture Hours:
Lecture/Lab Hours:
Lab Hours:
Special Fee:

Course Description


Addendum to Course Description


Intended Outcomes for the course

Upon successful completion, students should be able to:

  • Identify and describe various types and uses of fire protection systems. 
  • Describe the basic elements of a public water supply system as it relates to fire 
  • Utilize skills and knowledge necessary to perform an inspection of different fire alarm systems, recognize the basic components of the systems, and know the appropriate application of fire protection systems.
  • Apply knowledge of the different types of non-water based fire suppression systems that are commonly utilized to appropriate situation.
  • Choose the proper type of portable fire protection system appropriate to the given situation and communicate effectively how the system should be properly applied. 

Course Activities and Design


Outcome Assessment Strategies

Methods of assessment may include one or more of the following:

  • Quizzes and exams composed of objective questions and concepts.

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)


1. Explain the benefits of fire protection systems in various types of structures. 
2. Describe the basic elements of a public water supply system including sources, 
distribution networks, piping and hydrants. 
3. Explain why water is a commonly used extinguishing agent. 
4. Identify the different types and components of sprinkler, standpipe and foam systems. 
5. Review residential and commercial sprinkler legislation. 
6. Identify the different types of non-water based fire suppression systems. 
7. Explain the basic components of a fire alarm system. 
8. Identify the different types of detectors and explain how they detect fire. 
9. Describe the hazards of smoke and list the four factors that can influence smoke 
movement in a building. 
10. Discuss the appropriate application of fire protection systems. 
11. Explain the operation and appropriate application for the different types of portable fire 
protection systems.