Monday, June 11, 2012

Learning The Proper Way To Wear The Various SCBA Parts

By Alaric Sowerby


Fire exercises in college were actually less thrilling compared to high school. There was no pretend panic. Both the lecture and demo were held in an open area rather than inside a covered area. Definitely, I recognize the logic for safety in doing that since my high school gymnasium had a ventilation system so it was safe back then. The fire drill started and everyone lined up in a relaxed yet dull fashion. The only sign of life was the sound which originated from the engineering students preoccupied with their courses. As soon as every one of us gathered for the lecture, the representative quickly explained servicing Draeger SCBA equipment.

This was not the refresher on safety I expected. The very same individual discussed the way SCBAs require constant servicing. Or else, the safety equipment won't deliver safety. At least there were jokes hence the whole thing wasn't entirely dull. The honor students were actually waiting on to every word he said as if there would be an unexpected test on it. They had been jotting down information while I quietly hoped they would stop wasting time and start the firefighting simulation.

He was about to have that part but before he could, he showed how to put on the different SCBA parts. There was the gas mask, the air cylinder, and the straps or harness. The firefighter, after finally presenting himself, announced that the gear requires careful inspection prior to using it. The mask needs to be very clear, with no scratches. It is the same with the harness. The air tank vessel should not also have any dents.

He had another firefighter help him while he wears the air tank and the straps. I now figured out how it would be awkward to look at him struggle if he did it alone. He kept readjusting the straps so it would fit him and then made his partner examine the gauges. One particular gauge is at his back while the other is located near the front so he can have access to the switch.

Just before having the face mask on, he checked the pipe if it was snarled or not. He then wore the facemask. Although the face piece fitted properly, he kept on doing a test by stopping it with his hand. I don't know what it was actually for but I think it was to ascertain if the face mask works or if there was air going through it. He did some tweaks until he was completely satisfied.

He assured us that the apparatus will work well as they regularly maintain it and get it to an SCBA service if it needs repairing. People simply nodded in agreement as though they were pros on it. The most awaited fire exhibit and extinguisher show superseded that. Somebody in fact attempted to wear the SCBA gear on. I only watched at the sides and marveled at the only fun part of the fire drill.




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