How long can the SCBA carried by firefighters provide breathing for them?

Firefighting is crucial for protecting people and property from fires. Firefighters strive to protect our homes, schools and other locations from the hazards presented by fire. But firefighting is not an easy or safe job. Firefighters require special tools and equipment to keep themselves safe while performing their job. One of the primary tools they employ is known as the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus — SCBA for short. Read on to discover how long a firefighter can stay on SCBA, why it’s important that this time is well-managed, and the best practices when on the fire ground for safe breathing.

A self-contained breathing apparatus 

SCBA for short — is a device that provides firefighters with air when they are in smoky or fiery environments. It consists of several components working together. They have a tank that stores air, a valve that opens and closes the flow of air, a face mask that covers their mouth and nose, and a piece that regulates how much of air they can breathe. Before a firefighter enters a blazing structure, they have to ensure that their SCBA is functional. Its due diligence this check to ensure that they can breathe safely while they are doing their job.

The duration of this breathing system is critical to the safety of the firefighter. The scba apparatus allows a firefighter to breathe for about 30 minutes. This means they have to be mindful of the time and exit the danger zone before the air runs out. But sometimes they don’t have the full 30 minutes to work. That might also occur if they are panting from running or working hard, or they are exposed to a lot of smoke and heat. Both are important for firefighters to know how much air they have left to keep themselves safe.

Firefighters must complete SCBA user training 

Even after being trained, managing the SCBA well is very crucial. When they’re fighting fires, time is of the essence. They must ensure their security tools are operational immediately. Something wrong with their SCBA could endanger them. Firefighters shall NEVER store their scba in direct sunlight or heat. It helps to keep it safe and working properly. The air tanks have to be full before they head to work, and the face mask has to fit tightly to prevent air from leaking out. It allows firefighters to do their job as planned without worrying about his gear.

To protect firefighters and enable them to do their jobs effectively

The following best practices are recommended for firefighters: First, they need to always do a firefighter scba check before entering an IDLH space. That might involve checking the fit of the face mask, the air in the tank to see how much they have and whether the air supply indicator is working properly. Second, firefighters should use a system known as the buddy system. This means they team with another firefighter to keep track of each others’ air supply and safety. It's very useful to have a buddy “when disaster strikes.

Third, to conserve air and remain calm, firefighters should attempt to take small and shallow breaths, instead of large and quick ones. That way, they can prolong their air supply. They also should try to avoid sudden movements that can cause them to breathe more quickly. And finally, when the low-air alarm goes off, firefighters must leave the building. This alarm means it's time to replace their SCBA; to get more air; stay safe.