Question

select the correct answer
read the following excerpt and answer the question below
the fire station, a beacon of safety and preparedness in the small town of ashworth, had always prided itself on its impeccable record. fire chief miller often boasted at town meetings, \when it comes to fire, were the first to the scene and the first to ensure everyone is safe. ashworth can sleep soundly knowing were on watch.\ last tuesday, an electrical fault in the stations own kitchen sparked a blaze. by the time the firefighters, who were out on a training exercise, noticed the smoke billowing from their own headquarters, significant damage had already been done to the kitchen and communications room.
which of the following best identifies the irony in the excerpt?
a. this is dramatic irony as the reader possesses information unknown to the characters.
b. this is situational irony as the fire station, meant to prevent fires, experiences one.
c. this is verbal irony because chief millers statement contradicts his true meaning.
d. this is sarcasm because the narrators description of the station is intended as a sneer

Explanation:

Situational irony occurs when there is a contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually happens. The fire station, which is supposed to prevent and combat fires, has a fire break out in its own kitchen. This is a clear - cut case of situational irony. There is no evidence of dramatic irony (reader having more information than characters), verbal irony (words meaning the opposite of what is said), or sarcasm (a sneering or mocking tone).

Answer:

B. This is situational irony as the fire station, meant to prevent fires, experiences one.