MFMD receives ‘cutting edge’ breathing apparatus

The Maricopa Fire/Medical Department recently received new air supply units for their firefighters.

The benefits of the state-of-the-art Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, or SCBAs, include providing firefighters with a longer supply of air and better communication abilities.

The new devices, according to the MFMD report, increase breathing time “from 30 to 45 minutes” and lengthened the low-air alarm activation time “from 25 to 33 percent of cylinder pressure.”

Firefighters will also now have a Heads-Up Display, or HUD, to monitor air supply levels.

“The change gives our firefighters more time to get out of a harmful environment due to earlier low air alerting,” the report said.

Along with increased capacity, the report also claims the new SCBAs are equipped with Bluetooth radio voice amplifiers designed to improve communications between firefighters and ground crews in the noisy conditions of a structure fire.

Other benefits of the new SCBAs include higher heat ratings and a quick cylinder swap function.

The new units are “all-around more rugged and adjustable,” according to the report.

The new units, the model G1 developed by Mine Safety Appliance (MSA), are replacing the nearly 13-year-old “Firehawk” SCBAs the department has used since its formation.

“The new SCBA is cutting edge technology and meets the most recent safety and testing standards set by the National Fire Protection Association,” the report stated.