FireFighters IM ch02 022-077 · Chapter Overview Fire fighting is risky business. The fire fighter’s most important responsibility is to finish the shift or the call in the

Chapter OverviewFire fighting is risky business. The fire fighter’s most important responsibility is to finish the shift or the call in thesame (or better) condition than he or she began it. Coming home safely means knowing one’s job, understandingthe risks one faces as a fire fighter, and taking steps to prevent injuries by reducing or eliminating those risks.

In this chapter, fire fighters will learn about the general knowledge requirements of fire fighters and generalprinciples of safety that should be followed throughout one’s career in the fire service. Self-contained breathingapparatus (SCBA) and fire fighter personal protective equipment (PPE) are central to ensuring the safety of firefighters operating at a fire ground. In this chapter, the fire fighter will become familiar with the proper use ofboth SCBA and PPE.

After students complete this chapter and the related course work, they will understand the basic entry re-quirements to become a fire fighter, what general knowledge fire fighters are expected to have, and what skillsthey are expected to be able to perform. Students will also know about safe operating practices.

NFPA StandardsNFPA 1001 StandardFire Fighter I5.1.1.2 General Skill Requirements. The ability to don per-

sonal protective clothing within one minute; doffpersonal protective clothing and prepare forreuse; hoist tools and equipment using ropes andthe correct knot; tie a bowline, clove hitch, figureeight on a bight, half hitch, becket or sheet bend,and safety knots; and locate information in depart-mental documents and standard or code materials.

5.3.1 Use SCBA during emergency operations, givenSCBA and other personal protective equipment,so that the SCBA is correctly donned and acti-vated within one minute, the SCBA is correctlyworn, controlled breathing techniques are used,emergency procedures are enacted if the SCBA fails,all low-air warnings are recognized, respiratory pro-tection is not intentionally compromised, and haz-ardous areas are exited prior to air depletion.

5.3.1(A) Requisite Knowledge. Conditions that require respi-ratory protection, uses, and limitations of SCBA,components of SCBA, donning procedures,breathing techniques, indications for and emer-gency procedures used with SCBA, and physicalrequirements of the SCBA wearer.

5.3.1 (B) Requisite Skills. The ability to control breathing, re-place SCBA air cylinders, use SCBA to exit throughrestricted passages, initiate and complete emer-

gency procedures in the event of SCBA failure orair depletion, and complete donning procedures.

5.5.3 Clean and check ladders, ventilation equipment,self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), ropes,salvage equipment, and hand tools, given cleaningtools, cleaning supplies, and an assignment, so thatequipment is clean and maintained according tothe manufacturer’s or departmental guidelines,maintenance is recorded, and equipment is placedin a ready state or reported otherwise.

Fire Fighter II6.1.1.1 For certification at Level II, the Fire Fighter I shall

meet the general knowledge requirements in6.1.1.1, the general skill requirements in 6.1.1.2,and the job performance requirements defined inSections 6.2 through 6.5 of this standard and therequirements defined in Chapter 5, Competenciesfor the First Responder at the Operational Level ofNFPA 472, Standard for Professional Competence ofResponders to Hazardous Materials Incidents.

Additional NFPA StandardsNFPA 1404, Standard for Fire Service Respiratory Protection

TrainingNFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational

Safety and Health Program NFPA 1582, Standard on Medical Requirements for Fire

Fighters and Information for Fire Department Physicians

• Explain the procedures for refilling SCBA cylinders.

• List the steps for donning a complete PPE ensemble.

Skills Objectives• Don approved personal protective clothing.

• Doff approved personal protective clothing.

• Don an SCBA from a seat-mounted bracket.

• Don an SCBA from a side-mounted compartment.

• Don an SCBA from a storage case using the over-the-head method.

• Don an SCBA from a storage case using the coatmethod.

• Don a face piece.

• Doff an SCBA.

• Perform daily SCBA inspections.

• Perform monthly SCBA inspections.

• Replace an SCBA cylinder.

• Clean and sanitize an SCBA.

Support Materials• Dry erase board and markers or chalkboard and

chalk

• LCD projector, slide projector, or overhead pro-jector, and projection screen

• PowerPoint® presentation, overhead transparen-cies, or slides

• Digital camera with downloading or projectioncapabilities

• Personnel accountability system equipment in useby the department, including tags, passports, ac-countability status boards, and signaling systems

• Full set of fire fighter PPE. If available, PPE thathas been cut away to expose interior construction(i.e., cross-sectioned) will assist students in un-derstanding how PPE is constructed to protectthem.

• Newspaper articles or videos that depict failuresof fireground safety practices that have led to in-juries, deaths, or near-misses

• Copies of local departmental standard operatingprocedures (SOPs) relating to personnel account-ability, rapid intervention teams, rehabilitation,and other safety-related practices

NFPA 1971, Standard on Protective Ensemble forStructural Firefighting

NFPA 1975, Standard on Station/Work Uniforms forFire and Emergency Services

NFPA 1976, Standard on Protective Ensemble forProximity Firefighting

NFPA 1977, Standard on Protective Clothing andEquipment for Wildland Firefighting

NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-ContainedBreathing Apparatus for Fire and Emergency Services

NFPA 1982, Standard on Personal Alert Safety Sys-tems (PASS)

Knowledge Objectives• Discuss the educational, age, medical, physical fit-

ness, and emergency medical care requirementsfor becoming a fire fighter.

• Describe how standards and procedures, person-nel, training, and equipment are related to theprevention of fire fighter injuries and deaths.

• List safety precautions you need to take duringtraining, during emergency responses, at emer-gency incidents, at the fire station, and outsideyour workplace.

• Describe the protection provided by personal pro-tective equipment (PPE).

• Explain the importance of standards for PPE.

• Describe the limitations of PPE.

• Describe how to properly maintain PPE.

• Describe the hazards of smoke and other toxicenvironments.

• Explain why respiratory protection is needed inthe fire service.

• Describe the differences between open-circuitbreathing apparatus and closed-circuit breathingapparatus.

• Describe the limitations associated with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

• List and describe the major components of SCBA.

• Explain the skip-breathing technique.

• Explain the safety precautions you should re-member when using SCBA.

• Describe the importance of daily, monthly, andannual SCBA inspections.

24 F U N D A M E N T A L S O F F I R E F I G H T E R S K I L L S

Enhancements• Direct the students to visit the Internet at www.Fire-

Fighter.jbpub.com for online activities.

• Direct the students to relevant sections in the StudentWorkbook for application of the content introduced inthis chapter.

• Direct the students to relevant sections in the StudentReview Manual to prepare for examinations.

• Direct the students to the corresponding online Fire-Learn module to study the knowledge and criticalthinking skills presented online.

Teaching Tips• It is important for the instructor to dispel the myth of

fire fighter indestructibility. New fire fighters may oper-ate under a false sense of security about their PPE.They can quickly develop an “it-can’t-happen-to-me”mentality that can lead them to take unacceptable riskson the fireground. Instructors should use videotapes,newspaper articles, or in-person guests to relate the sto-ries of fire fighters who have had close brushes with in-jury or death.

• Have each student research one fire fighter fatality thatoccurred within the previous year. Documentation offire fighter fatalities is available yearly from both theNational Fire Protection Association and the U.S. FireAdministration. Select a few students at random to re-late to the class the circumstances of the fatality inci-dent they researched.

• Hand out a copy of each safety-related SOP to everystudent. Assign students to read each SOP thoroughly.

Reading and Preparation• Review all instructional materials, including Fundamen-

tals of Fire Fighter Skills, Chapter 2, and all related pre-sentation support materials.

• Gather several examples of fire fighter PPE and person-nel accountability system equipment to use for presen-tation support.

• Review your syllabus to confirm the sequence of thischapter for classroom delivery.

• Review local firefighting SOPs for personnel account-ability, rapid intervention teams, rehabilitation, andother safety-related practices.

F i r e F i g h t e r Q u a l i f i c a t i o n s a n d S a f e t y 25

Presentation OverviewTotal time: 415 minutesPre-LectureI. You Are the Fire Fighter Small Group Activity/Discussion 5 minutes

NotesLectureI. Introduction Lecture/Discussion 5 minutes

NotesII. Fire Fighter Qualifications Lecture/Discussion 10 minutes

NotesIII. Fire Fighter Safety Lecture/Discussion 10 minutes

NotesIV. Safety and Health Lecture/Discussion 30 minutes

NotesV. Personal Protective Equipment Lecture/Discussion/Demonstration 45 minutes

NotesVI. Respiratory Protection Lecture/Discussion/Demonstration 45 minutes

NotesVII. Summary Lecture/Discussion 5 minutes

NotesVIII. Skill Drills Demonstration/Group Activity 180 minutes

A. Donning Personal Protective Clothing (Skill Drill 2-1)B. Doffing Personal Protective Clothing (Skill Drill 2-2)C. Donning SCBA from a Seat-Mounted Bracket (Skill Drill 2-3)D. Donning SCBA from a Side-Mounted Compartment or

Bracket (Skill Drill 2-4)E. Donning SCBA Using the Over-the-Head Method

(Skill Drill 2-5)F. Donning SCBA Using the Coat Method (Skill Drill 2-6)G. Donning a Face Piece (Skill Drill 2-7)H. Doffing SCBA (Skill Drill 2-8)I. Daily SCBA Inspection (Skill Drill 2-9)J. Monthly SCBA Inspection (Skill Drill 2-10)K. Replacing an SCBA Cylinder (Skill Drill 2-11)L. Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBA (Skill Drill 2-12)

NotesPost-LectureI. Wrap-Up

A. Fire Fighter in Action Small Group Activity/Individual Activity/Discussion 20 minutesB. Technology Resources (www.FireFighter.jbpub.com) Small Group/Individual Activity 20 minutes

II. Lesson Review Discussion 15 minutesIII. Assignments Lecture 5 minutesIV. Chapter 2 Instructor Keyed Quiz Individual Activity 20 minutes

Notes


Pre-LectureYou Are the Fire Fighter

Time: 5 minutes

Small Group Activity/Discussion

Use this activity to motivate students to learn the knowledge and skills needed to perform their duties as a fire fightersafely and correctly.

PurposeTo allow students an opportunity to explore the significance and concerns associated with basic fireground safety.

Instructor Directions1. Direct students to read the “You Are the Fire Fighter” scenario found in the beginning of Chapter 2.

2. You may assign students to a partner or a group. Direct them to review the discussion questions at the end of the scenario andprepare a response to each question. Facilitate a class dialogue centered on the discussion questions.

3. You may also assign this as an individual activity and ask students to turn in their comments on a separate piece of paper.

LectureLesson Plan

Lesson Plan

Slides 1-7Chapter Objectives

Slide 8Introduction(1 of 2)• Fire fighters must meet certain qualifications

to perform their jobs adequately and safely.

• National, state, and local standards gov-ern the knowledge, training, performancecapabilities, and other qualifications.

Slide 9Introduction(2 of 2)• Fire fighter safety is paramount in all

operations.

• Fire fighters must be trained and proficientin the use of personal protective clothingand respiratory protection equipment.

S L I D E T E X T L E C T U R E N O T E S

I. IntroductionTime: 5 minutes

Slides: 1-9

Lecture/Discussion

A. Fire fighters must meet certain qualifications in order toperform their jobs adequately and safely.

B. National, state, and local laws and standards govern theknowledge, training, performance capabilities, and otherqualifications required of fire fighters.

C. Fire fighter safety is paramount in all operations.

D. Fire fighters must be trained and proficient in the use offire fighter personal protective clothing and respiratoryprotection equipment.


II. Fire Fighter QualificationsTime: 10 minutes

Slides: 10-12

Lecture/Discussion

A. NFPA 1001, Standard for Fire Fighter ProfessionalQualifications spells out training and performancequalifications for fire fighters.

B. Age, education requirements, medical requirements, andother criteria are established locally.

C. Age Requirements1. Generally 18, although some departments require 21.

2. In some volunteer departments, junior members can join at 16.

D. Education Requirements1. Most career departments require at least a high school diploma.

2. Some departments require college-level classes.

3. Additional classes are required for promotion or extra responsibility.

E. Medical Requirements1. A pre-training medical evaluation is required by NFPA 1582, Standard on Medical

Requirements for Fire Fighters and Information for Fire Department Physicians.

F. Emergency Medical Care Requirements1. Under NFPA 1001, fire departments may specify a minimum level of emergency

medical care training required for entry into the department.

III. Fire Fighter SafetyTime: 10 minutes

Slides: 13-27

Lecture/Discussion

A. Introduction to Fire Fighter Safety1. Common sense tells us firefighting is inherently dangerous.

2. Fire departments must do what they can to reduce the hazards and dangers ofthe job.

Slide 10Fire Fighter Qualifications(1 of 3)• NFPA 1001 outlines training and perfor-

mance qualifications.

• Age, education requirements, medical re-quirements, and other criteria estab-lished locally

Slide 11Fire Fighter Qualifications(2 of 3)• Age requirements:

– Generally 18, but some departmentsrequire 21

• Education requirements:

– Most career departments require highschool diploma.

– Some departments require college-level classes.

Slide 12Fire Fighter Qualifications(3 of 3)• Medical requirements:

– NFPA 1582 requires pre-trainingmedical evaluation.

• Emergency medical care requirements:

– Under NFPA 1001, departments mayspecify a minimum level of emer-gency medical care training.

Slide 13Fire Fighter Safety(1 of 2)• Firefighting is inherently dangerous.

• Departments must do what they can toreduce known hazards and dangers.



a. The incident commander has ultimate responsibility for the overall safety ofevery fireground operation.

b. The safety officer is responsible for evaluating the hazards of various situa-tions and recommending appropriate safety measures to the incident com-mander.

c. Fire departments should review and revise their safety procedures regularly.d. Safety must be fully integrated in every activity, procedure, and job description.e. The final responsibility for personal safety falls to the individual fire fighter.

B. Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths and Injuries1. Each year about 100 fire fighters are killed in the line of duty in the United

States.

2. Deaths occur:a. At emergency incident scenesb. In the stationc. During trainingd. Responding to or returning from emergencies

3. Heart attacks (on and off the fireground) are the leading cause of fire fighterdeaths.

4. Vehicle collisions are a major cause of fire fighter fatalitiesa. Nationally there is one emergency vehicle collision per 1,000 responsesb. 27% of fire fighter fatalities in vehicle collisions involved ejections from the

vehicle. Seatbelt usage is key!

5. According to the NPFA, 82,250 fire fighters were injured in the line of duty in2001. That works out to slightly more than nine injuries per hour, every hour ofevery day, nationwide.a. Half of these injuries occurred while fighting fires.b. 17 percent occurred at other emergencies.c. One-third of injuries occurred in the station or while doing non-emergency

department-related activities.d. Strains, sprains, and soft-tissue injuries were most common.e. Burns and smoke and gas inhalation were only a small percentage.

Slide 14Fire Fighter Safety(2 of 2)• IC has ultimate responsibility for the

overall safety of every operation.

• Safety officer is responsible for evaluat-ing hazards and recommending appropri-ate safety measures.

• Final responsibility for personal safetyfalls to the individual fire fighter.

Slide 15Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths andInjuries(1 of 5)• Each year about 100 fire fighters are

killed in the line of duty in the U.S.

• Deaths occur:

– At emergency incidents

– In the station

– During training

– Responding to or returning fromemergencies

Slide 16Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths andInjuries(2 of 5)• Heart attacks are the leading cause of fire

fighter deaths.

– Both on and off the fireground

Slide 17Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths andInjuries(3 of 5)• Vehicle collisions

– One emergency vehicle collision per1,000 responses

– 27% of fatalities involved ejections

– Seatbelt usage is key!

Slide 18Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths and Injuries(4 of 5)• 82,250 line of duty injuries in 2001

(Source: NFPA)

• Strains, sprains, and soft-tissue injuriesmost common

• Burns and smoke and gas inhalation onlya small percentage



C. Injury Prevention1. Every member of the team has the responsibility to prevent injuries. An injured

fire fighter becomes a safety liability for everyone because team strength isdiminished, the injured person may need rescue and medical care, and a firefighter injury becomes a psychological distraction for all emergency personnel.

2. The relative priority of safety on the fireground is:a. Self (personal safety)b. Other team membersc. Everyone else present at the emergency scene

3. A successful safety program will address standards and procedures, personnel,training, and equipment.

D. Standards and Procedures

1. Fire service safety is governed by NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire DepartmentOccupational Safety and Health Program, and state and federal agencies orprograms, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

2. Every fire department should have a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs)or standard operating guidelines (SOGs).a. SOPs or SOGs cover a range of topics from uniform and grooming standards

to emergency scene operations.b. Every fire fighter is responsible for understanding and following applicable

SOPs or SOGs.

3. The Incident Management System (IMS) is used in the command and control ofemergency incidents. Using the IMS helps ensure safe operations, so it should beimplemented at every scene.

4. Each department should have (or consider having) a health and safetycommittee.

Slide 19Causes of Fire Fighter Deaths and Injuries(5 of 5)Figure 2-2Table 2-1

Slide 20Injury Prevention(1 of 2)• Every team member is responsible to

prevent injuries.

• Priority of safety on the fireground is:

– Self (personal safety)

– Other team members

– Everyone else

Slide 21Injury Prevention(2 of 2)• A successful safety program will address:

– standards and procedures

– personnel

– training

– equipment

Slide 22Standards and Procedures(1 of 2)• Fire service safety is governed by:

– NFPA 1500

– State and federal agencies or programs

• Every department should have SOPs

Slide 23Standards and Procedures(2 of 2)• IMS used in the command and control of

emergency incidents to ensure safe oper-ations.

• Each department should have (or considerhaving) a health and safety committee.



E. Personnel

1. A safety program is only as effective as the individuals who implement it.

2. Working as part of a team is essential to safe operations.

3. Freelancing, or acting independently of orders or SOPs, is extremely dangerousand has no place on the fireground.

4. A fire fighter who freelances endangers not only him- or herself, but everyoneelse at the scene who may need to rescue that fire fighter.

5. A safety officer is a designated member of the fire department whose primaryresponsibility is safety.a. Safety officers report directly to the incident commander.b. Safety officers have the authority to stop any action that they judge to be

unsafe.

F. Training

1. The knowledge and skills developed during training classes are essential forsafety.

2. Fire fighters must continually seek out additional courses and work to keep theirskills current to ensure personal and team safety.

G. Equipment

1. Fire fighters must know how to use equipment properly and operate it safely.

2. Equipment also must be properly maintained.

3. Follow manufacturers’ operating instructions and safety procedures.a. Use equipment for its intended purpose.b. Do not exceed manufacturers’ safety parameters for chosen equipment.c. Ensure equipment purchased meets applicable standards for its intended use.

Slide 24Personnel(1 of 2)• A safety program is only as effective as

the individuals who implement it.

• Teamwork is essential to safe operations.

• “Freelancing” is acting independently oforders or SOPs or SOGs.

• Freelancing is extremely dangerous andhas no place on the fireground.

Slide 25Personnel(2 of 2)• Safety officer

– Designated member of the fire department

– Primary responsibility is safety.

– Reports directly to the IC.

– Has the authority to stop any actiondeemed to be unsafe.

Slide 26Training• Knowledge and skills from training are

essential for safety.

• Fire fighters must continually seek outadditional courses and work to keeptheir skills current.

Slide 27Equipment• Fire fighters must know how to use

equipment properly and operate it safely.

• Equipment must be properly maintained.

• Follow manufacturers’ operating instruc-tions and safety procedures.



IV. Safety and HealthTime: 30 minutes

Slides: 28-57

Lecture/Discussion

A. Personal Safety and Health1. A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, weight training, and

cardiovascular exercises helps reduce many risk factors for heart disease andenables fire fighters to meet the physical demands of the job.

2. Each department member is responsible for personal conditioning and nutrition.

3. All fire fighters, whether paid or volunteer, should spend at least an hour a day inphysical fitness training.

4. Fire fighters should drink up to a gallon of water each day to keep properlyhydrated.

5. Diet is an important aspect of physical fitness.

6. Fire fighters should avoid tobacco products entirely for both health andinsurance reasons.

7. Fire fighters should never work under the effects of alcohol or drugs.

8. Fire fighters who use drugs endanger their lives, the lives of their team members,and the lives of the public they serve.

Slide 28Safety and Health(1 of 4)• A healthful lifestyle includes:

– a balanced diet

– weight training

– cardiovascular exercises

• A healthful lifestyle:

– helps reduce risk factors for heart disease

– enables fire fighters to meet the phys-ical demands of the job

Slide 29Safety and Health(2 of 4)• Each department member is responsible

for personal conditioning and nutrition.

• All fire fighters should spend at least onehour a day in physical fitness training.

Slide 30Safety and Health(3 of 4)• Drink up to a gallon of water each day to

keep properly hydrated.

• Diet is an important aspect of physicalfitness.

• Avoid tobacco products entirely for bothhealth and insurance reasons.

Slide 31Safety and Health(4 of 4)• Never work under the effects of alcohol

or drugs.

– Ensure off duty alcohol consumptionis within reason and never more thaneight hours before going on duty.



C. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)1. EAPs provide help with a wide range of problems that might affect performance,

including:a. Physical problemsb. Financial problemsc. Emotional problemsd. Substance abuse problems

2. Fire fighters who use an EAP can do so with complete confidentiality andwithout fear of retribution.

D. Safety During Training1. According to the NFPA, an average of nine fire fighters are fatally injured during

training exercises every year.

2. Proper protective gear and teamwork are as important during training as theyare on the fireground.

3. Developing the proper (i.e., safe) working habits during training courses helpsensure safety later (on the fireground).

4. Do not attempt anything you feel is beyond your ability or knowledge.

5. If you see something that you feel is an unsafe practice, bring it to the attentionof your instructors or a designated safety officer.

6. Do not freelance during training (or any other time)!

7. Work as a team!

8. A fire fighter injured during training should not return until medically cleared forduty.

E. Safety During Emergency Response1. Walk quickly to the apparatus; do not run. You do not want to slip and become

injured.

2. Personal protective gear should be properly positioned so you can don it quicklybefore getting into the apparatus.

Slide 32Employee Assistance Programs• Provide help with a wide range of

problems.

• Fire fighters who use an EAP can do sowith complete confidentiality and with-out fear of retribution.

Slide 33Safety During Training(1 of 3)• Average of nine fire fighters are fatally in-

jured during training exercises everyyear. (Source: NFPA)

• Proper protective gear and teamwork areas important during training as they areon the fireground.

• Following safe working habits during train-ing helps ensure safety on the fireground.

Slide 34Safety During Training(2 of 3)• Do not attempt anything you feel is be-

yond your ability or knowledge.

• Bring unsafe practices to the attention of your instructors or designated safetyofficer.

Slide 35Safety During Training(3 of 3)• No freelancing during training (or any

other time)!

• Work as a team!

• A fire fighter injured during trainingshould not return until medically clearedfor duty.

Slide 36Safety During Emergency Response(1 of 2)• Walk quickly to the apparatus; do not run.

• Personal protective gear should be prop-erly positioned so you can don it quicklybefore getting into the apparatus.



3. Be sure that seat belts are properly fastened before the apparatus begins tomove.

4. Know how to don seat-mounted SCBA without compromising safety.

5. The few seconds gained by speeding are not worth the risk created.

6. Comply with all applicable traffic laws.

F. Safety at Emergency Incidents1. Fire fighters should never charge blindly into action.

2. The commanding officer will “size-up” the situation and evaluate conditions.

3. Wait for the officer in command to “size-up” the situation before acting.a. Follow the officer’s instructions.b. Do not freelance.

4. Use the buddy system.a. Maintain a minimum of two fire fighters in each team.b. Never work alone.c. If one member of the team needs to leave the structure, the entire team must

leave together.d. Maintain visual, vocal, or physical contact with each other at all times.

e. Team members should check each other’s PPE to ensure it is on and workingcorrectly before they enter a hazardous area.

f. At least one member of each team should have a portable two-way radio.g. A back-up team needs to be in place anytime fire fighters are in a hazardous

area in case the entry team has to be rescued.h. A designated rapid intervention team should be established and positioned

outside the hazardous area.

Slide 37Safety During Emergency Response(2 of 2)• Be sure that seat belts are properly fas-

tened before the apparatus begins to move.

• Know how to don seat-mounted SCBAwithout compromising safety.

• Do not speed!

• Comply with all applicable traffic laws.

Slide 38Safety at Emergency Incidents(1 of 2)• Wait for the officer in command to “size-

up” the situation.

• Use the buddy system.

• Adhere to a personnel accountability system.

• Understand incident scene hazards.

• Use tools and equipment safely.

Slide 39Safety at Emergency Incidents(2 of 2)• Take precautions for electrical safety.

• Practice good lifting and moving techniques.

• Use caution in adverse weather.

• Ensure sufficient time is spent in rehabilitation.

• Know how to cope with violent scenes.

Slide 40The Buddy System(1 of 2)• Never work alone.

• If one team member needs to leave thestructure, the entire team must leave to-gether.

• Maintain visual, vocal, or physical con-tact with each other at all times.

Slide 41The Buddy System(2 of 2)• Buddies check each other’s PPE to ensure

it is on and working correctly.

• At least one team member should have aportable two-way radio.

• Have a back-up team ready.



5. Adhere to the personnel accountability system.a. Every fire department should have a personnel accountability system to track

personnel and assignments on the emergency scene.b. The system should record:

i. The individuals assigned to each teamii. The assignments for each team

iii. The team’s current activitiesc. The purpose of a personnel accountability system is to provide an up-to-

date accounting of everyone who is working at the incident and how theyare organized.

d. Fire fighters must learn their department’s accountability system, how towork within it, and how it works within the IMS.

e. Acceptable personnel accountability systems include:i. Paper-based systems

ii. Display boardsiii. Laptop computer systemsiv. “Passport”-type systemsv. Accountability tag systems

6. Understand incident scene hazards.a. Fire fighters must be aware of their surroundings when performing their as-

signed tasks at an emergency scene.b. Always operate within established boundaries and protected work areas.c. Changing fire conditions will also affect safety.d. Because the chance for injury increases when you are tired, do not let down

your safety guard even though the main part of the fire is over.

7. Use tools and equipment safely.a. Learn how to use tools and equipment properly and safely before using them

at an emergency incident.b. Use protective gear such as PPE, safety glasses, and hearing protection when

they are required.

c. Equipment should always be in excellent condition and ready for use.d. Practice doing basic repairs on tools and equipment at the fire station until

you can perform them quickly and safely on the emergency scene.

Slide 42Accountability(1 of 2)• Personnel accountability system:

• Provides an up-to-date accounting ofeveryone at the incident and how theyare organized.

• Fire fighters must learn their depart-ment’s system, how to work within it,and how it works within IMS.

Slide 43Accountability(2 of 2)• Acceptable systems include:

– Paper-based systems

– Display boards

– Laptop computer systems

– “Passport” systems

– Accountability tag systems

Slide 44Incident Scene Hazards• Be aware of your surroundings.

• Always operate within established bound-aries and protected work areas.

• Changing fire conditions will affectsafety.

• Do not let down your safety guard eventhough the main part of the fire is over.

Slide 45Using Tools and Equipment Safely(1 of 2)• Learn to use tools and equipment prop-

erly and safely before using them at anemergency incident.

• Use protective gear such as PPE, safetyglasses, and hearing protection.

Slide 46Using Tools and Equipment Safely(2 of 2)• Equipment should always be in excellent

condition and ready for use.

• Practice doing basic repairs on tools andequipment at the fire station.



8. Take precautions for electrical safety.a. Energized power lines may be present on the fireground.b. Always check for overhead power lines when raising ladders.c. During any firefighting operations, the electric power supply to the building

should be turned off.

d. Park apparatus outside the area and away from power lines when respondingto a call for an electrical emergency.

e. A downed power line should be considered energized until the power com-pany confirms that it is dead.

f. Do not use water to suppress fires near downed power lines.

9. Practice good lifting and moving techniques.a. Do not try to move something that is too heavy alone—ask for help.b. Prevent back injuries by always bending at the knees and using the legs to

lift.

10. Use caution in adverse weather conditions.a. Dress appropriately for adverse weather conditions.b. Watch your footing on slippery surfaces.

11. Ensure sufficient time is spent in rehabilitation.a. Fatigued fire fighters are more prone to making mistakes and becoming in-

jured.b. Rehabilitation is a systematic process to provide periods of rest and recovery

for emergency workers during an incident.

c. Rehabilitation time can be used to replace SCBA cylinders, obtain new batteries for portable radios, and make repairs or adjustments to tools orequipment.

Slide 47Electrical Safety(1 of 2)• Energized power lines may be present on

the fireground.

• Always check for overhead power lineswhen raising ladders.

• Electric power supply to the buildingshould be turned off.

Slide 48Electrical Safety(2 of 2)• Park apparatus outside the area and away

from power lines.

• A downed power line should be consid-ered energized until the power companyconfirms that it is dead.

• Do not use water to suppress fires neardowned power lines.

Slide 49Lifting and Moving• Do not try to move something that is too

heavy alone—ask for help.

• Prevent back injuries by always bendingat the knees and using the legs to lift.

Slide 50Working in Adverse WeatherConditions• Dress appropriately for adverse weather

conditions.

• Watch your footing on slippery surfaces.

Slide 51Rehabilitation(1 of 3)• Fatigued fire fighters are more prone to

making mistakes and becoming injured.

• Rehabilitation is a systematic process toprovide periods of rest and recovery foremergency workers during an incident.

Slide 52Rehabilitation(2 of 3)• “Rehab” time can be used to:

– replace SCBA cylinders

– obtain new batteries for portable radios

– make repairs or adjustments to toolsor equipment



d. Personnel should not be released from rehabilitation until they are rested, re-freshed, and ready for another work cycle.

e. Any fire fighter exhibiting signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion, or chestpain or discomfort should stop and seek medical attention immediately.

12. Know how to cope with violence at the scene.a. Fire fighters must sometimes contend with violent scenes.b. Do not proceed to the scene until the police have declared it safe.c. If the scene is not secure and there is any threat to personal safety, slowly

back away from the emergency scene to a safe distance and request the policeto secure the scene.

d. If you are confronted with a potentially violent situation, do not respond violently.

13. Critical Incident Stress Debriefinga. Fire fighters involved in difficult or emotionally traumatic calls may be re-

quired to attend a critical incident stress debriefing (CISD).b. CISD provides a forum for firefighting and EMS personnel to discuss the

anxieties, stress, and emotions triggered by a difficult call.c. Most departments have qualified, designated CISD staff available 24 hours a

day.

G. Safety at the Fire Station1. Fire fighters will spend much of their shift time at the fire station.

2. Injuries that occur at the firehouse can be just as devastating as those that occurat an emergency incident scene.

3. Be careful when working with power tools, ladders, electrical appliances,pressurized cylinders, and hot surfaces.

H. Safety Outside Your Workplace1. An accident or injury, regardless of where it happens, can end your career as a

fire fighter.

2. Follow safe practices when you are off-duty.

Slide 53Rehabilitation(3 of 3)• Personnel should not return to duty un-

til they are rested and refreshed.

• Any fire fighter exhibiting signs andsymptoms of heat exhaustion, chest painor discomfort should stop and seek med-ical attention immediately.

Slide 54Violence at the Scene• Fire fighters must sometimes contend

with violent scenes.

• Do not proceed to the scene until the po-lice have declared it safe.

• If confronted with a potentially violentsituation, do not respond violently.

Slide 55Critical Incident Stress Debriefing• CISD provides a forum for personnel to

discuss anxieties, stress, and emotionstriggered by difficult calls.

• Most departments have CISD staff avail-able 24 hours a day.

Slide 56Safety at the Fire Station• Be careful when working with power

tools, ladders, electrical appliances, pres-surized cylinders, and hot surfaces.

• Injuries that occur at the firehouse canbe just as devastating as those that occurat an emergency incident scene.

Slide 57Safety Outside Your Workplace• Follow safe practices when you are off-

duty.

• An accident or injury, regardless ofwhere it happens, can end your career asa fire fighter.



V. Personal Protective EquipmentTime: 45 minutes

Slides: 58-85

Lecture/Discussion/Demonstration

A. Structural Firefighting Ensemble1. Introduction to PPE

a. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential component of a firefighter’s safety system.

b. The more you know about the protection your PPE can provide, the betteryou will be able to judge conditions that exceed its limitations.

c. A fire fighter’s PPE must provide full body coverage and protection from avariety of hazards.

d. Structural firefighting PPE is designed to be worn with self-contained breath-ing apparatus, which provides respiratory protection.

e. To be effective, the entire ensemble must be worn whenever potential expo-sure to those hazards exists.

2. Protection Provideda. Coat and trousers have tough outer shells that can withstand high tempera-

tures, repel water, and provide protection from abrasions and sharp objects.b. Knees may be reinforced with leather pads for greater protection when

crawling.c. Fluorescent/reflective trim adds visibility.d. Insulating layers of fire-resistant materials protect the skin from high temper-

atures.e. A moisture barrier between the layers keeps liquids and vapors, such as hot

water or steam, from reaching the skin.

3. Helmeta. Helmet design must meet the requirements specified in NFPA 1971, Standard

on Protective Ensemble for Structural Firefighting.b. The helmet provides protection from trauma to the head and includes ear

coverings.c. The hard outer shell is lined with energy-absorbing material and has a sus-

pension system to provide impact protection against falling objects.d. The shape of the helmet helps to deflect water away from the head and neck.

e. Face and eye protection can be provided by a face shield, goggles, or both,which are generally attached to the helmet.

f. A chin strap is also required and must be worn to keep the helmet in theproper position.

Slide 58Personal Protective Equipment• PPE is an essential component of a fire

fighter’s safety system.

• PPE must provide full body coverage andprotection from a variety of hazards.

Slide 59Structural Firefighting Ensemble• Structural firefighting PPE is designed to

be worn with SCBA.

• To be effective, the entire ensemble mustbe worn whenever potential exposure tothose hazards exists.

Slide 60Protection Provided by the Helmet(1 of 3)• Protects against blunt trauma and in-

cludes ear coverings.

• A hard outer shell is lined with energy-absorbing material and a suspension sys-tem protects against impact from fallingobjects.

• The shape of the helmet deflects waterfrom the head and neck.

Slide 61Protection Provided by the Helmet(2 of 3)• A face shield, goggles, or both, protect

the eyes.

• A chin strap keeps the helmet in theproper position.



g. When entering a burning building, the fire fighter should pull down the eartabs for maximum protection.

h. Helmet shells are often color-coded according to the fire fighter’s rank andfunction.

4. Protective Hooda. A fire-retardant hood covers any exposed skin between the coat collar and

the helmet.b. Hoods are constructed of flame-resistant materials such as Nomex® or PBI®.c. Protective hoods are worn over the face piece but under the helmet.d. Carefully fit the hood around the face piece so that no areas of bare skin are

left exposed.

5. Turnout Coata. Turnout coats have three layers:

i. Protective outer shell, constructed of a sturdy, flame-resistant, water-repellant material such as Nomex, Kevlar®, or PBI.

ii. Moisture barrier, which helps prevent the transfer of water, steam, andother fluids to the skin.

iii. Thermal barrier, which insulates the body from external temperatures.

b. The coat’s sleeves have wristlets that prevent liquids or hot embers from get-ting between the sleeves and the skin.

c. Both long and short style turnout coats will protect the body as long as thematching style of pants or coveralls are also worn.

Slide 62Protection Provided by the Helmet(3 of 3)• When entering a burning building, the

fire fighter should pull down the ear tabsfor maximum protection.

• Helmet shells are often color-coded accord-ing to the fire fighter’s rank and function.

Slide 63Protection Provided by the ProtectiveHood• Covers any exposed skin between the

coat collar and the helmet.

• Constructed of flame-resistant materialssuch as Nomex® or PBI®.

• Worn over the face piece but under thehelmet.

Slide 64Protection Provided by Turnout Gear(1 of 4)• Turnout coat and bunker pants have

tough outer shells.

– Can withstand high temperatures

– Repel water

– Protect against abrasions and sharpobjects

• Leather pads on knees for protectionwhen crawling.

Slide 65Protection Provided by Turnout Gear(2 of 4)• Reflective trim adds visibility.

• Insulating layers of fire-resistant materi-als protect from high heat.

• Moisture barrier keeps hot liquids andvapors from reaching the skin.

Slide 66Protection Provided by Turnout Gear(3 of 4)• Sleeves have wristlets to keep out liquids

or hot embers.

• Both long and short style turnout coatswill protect the body as long as thematching style of pants or coveralls arealso worn.



6. Bunker Pantsa. Bunker pants have the same three-layer protective system as is found in

turnout coats.b. Constructed in a waist-length design or bib-overall configuration to match

long and short turnout coats, respectively.c. Pants should be large enough to allow you to don them quickly.

7. Bootsa. Boots protect the feet and ankles from the fire, keep them dry, prevent punc-

ture injuries, and protect the toes from crushing injuries.b. Boots can be constructed of rubber or leather.c. The outer layer repels water and must be both flame- and cut-resistant.

d. Boots must have: i. a heavy sole with a slip-resistant design,

ii. a puncture-resistant sole, andiii. a reinforced toe to prevent injury from falling objects.

e. An inner liner constructed of materials such as Nomex or Kelvar adds ther-mal protection.

8. Glovesa. Gloves protect the hands from heat, cuts, and abrasions.b. Firefighting gloves are usually constructed of heat-resistant leather.c. Required wristlets prevent skin exposure during normal firefighting activities

and are usually made of knitted Nomex or Kevlar.

d. The liner adds thermal protection and serves as a moisture barrier.e. Fire fighters need to practice manual skills while wearing gloves to become

accustomed to them and to adjust movement accordingly.

Slide 67Protection Provided by Turnout Gear(4 of 4)• Bunker pants can have a waist-length or

bib-overall design.

• Manufactured with a double fastener sys-tem at the waist.

• Should be big enough to allow you tocrawl and bend your knees.

Slide 68Protection Provided by Boots(1 of 2)• Boots protect the feet and ankles from

the fire, keep them dry, prevent punctureinjuries, and protect the toes from crush-ing injuries.

• Boots can be rubber or leather.

• The outer layer repels water and must beboth flame- and cut-resistant.

Slide 69Protection Provided by Boots(2 of 2)• Boots must have:

– a heavy sole with a slip-resistant design,

– a puncture-resistant sole, and

– a reinforced toe to prevent injuryfrom falling objects.

• An inner liner constructed of materialssuch as Nomex® or Kelvar® adds thermalprotection.

Slide 70Protection Provided by Gloves(1 of 2)• Gloves protect the hands from heat, cuts,

and abrasions.

• Firefighting gloves are usually con-structed of heat-resistant leather.

• Required wristlets prevent skin exposureand are usually made of knitted Nomex®

or Kelvar®.

Slide 71Protection Provided by Gloves(2 of 2)• A liner adds thermal protection and

serves as a moisture barrier.

• Fire fighters need to practice manualskills while wearing gloves to become ac-customed to them and to adjust move-ment accordingly.



9. Respiratory Protectiona. Self-contained breathing apparatus provides respiratory protection through

an independent air supply.b. The PPE ensemble for structural firefighting is not complete without ade-

quate respiratory protection.

10. Personal Alert Safety System (PASS)a. A PASS is an electronic device that sounds a loud audible signal if a fire

fighter is motionless for a set time period or if activated by the fire fighter.

b. A PASS can be separate from or integrated into the SCBA unit.c. Intergrated PASS devices automatically turn on when the SCBA is activated.d. Separate PASS devices are often worn on the SCBA harness and must be

turned on manually.

11. Additional Personal Protective Equipmenta. When additional eye protection (beyond that provided by a helmet face

shield) is needed, such as when using power saws or hydraulic rescue tools,fire fighters can use approved goggles.

b. An intercom system on the apparatus can provide hearing protection fromsirens.

c. Flexible ear plugs are useful in other situations involving loud sounds.d. A fire fighter should always carry a hand light, as most interior firefighting is

done in near-dark, zero-visibility conditions.e. At least one member of each team working inside a burning building or in

any hazardous area should always have a radio.

Slide 72Respiratory Protection• Self-contained breathing apparatus

(SCBA) provides respiratory protectionthrough an independent air supply.

• PPE ensemble for structural firefightingis not complete without respiratory pro-tection.

Slide 73Personal Alert Safety System (PASS)(1 of 2)• A PASS is an electronic device that

sounds a loud audible signal if a firefighter is motionless for a set time periodor if activated by the fire fighter.

Slide 74Personal Alert Safety System (PASS)(2 of 2)• A PASS can be separate from or inte-

grated into the SCBA unit.

– Intergrated—automatically turns onwhen the SCBA is activated.

– Separate—often worn on the SCBAharness and must be turned on manually.

Slide 75Additional Personal ProtectiveEquipment(1 of 2)• Goggles provide additional eye protection.

• An apparatus intercom facilitates teamcommunication while protecting hearingfrom sirens.

Slide 76Additional Personal ProtectiveEquipment(2 of 2)• Flexible ear plugs are useful in other sit-

uations involving loud sounds.

• A fire fighter should always carry a handlight.

• At least one member of each team in ahazardous area should have a radio.



12. Limitations of the Structural Firefighting Ensemblea. Each component must be properly donned and worn to provide complete

protection.b. Components must be put on in the proper order and correctly secured.

c. PPE is heavy–nearly 50 pounds–which means that everything you do re-quires more energy and strength.

d. Because of the vapor barrier, PPE retains body heat and perspiration.e. Fire fighters in full protective gear can rapidly develop elevated body temper-

atures, even when the ambient temperature is cool.

f. PPE limits mobility and range of motion.g. PPE also decreases normal sensory abilities.

13. Work Uniformsa. A fire fighter’s work uniform is also part of the personal protective package.b. Clothing containing nylon or polyester, even if blended with natural fibers,

should not be worn in a firefighting environment because it may melt.c. Volunteer fire fighters, who often wear PPE over their normal clothing,

should consider these fabric properties when selecting their wardrobe.

B. Donning Personal Protective Clothing1. Fire fighters should be able to don personal protective clothing in one minute or less.

a. This requires practice.b. Donning protective clothing must be done in a specific order to obtain maxi-

mum protection.c. Donning PPE will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-1.

C. Doffing Personal Protective Clothing1. Reverse the procedure used in getting dressed.

2. If necessary, PPE should be cleaned after it is used, and then kept in a convenientlocation for the next response.

3. PPE may be kept close to the apparatus, on the apparatus, or in an equipment locker.a. Follow your department’s policies on this.b. Doffing PPE will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-2.

Slide 77Limitations of the StructuralFirefighting Ensemble(1 of 3)• Each component must be properly

donned and worn to provide completeprotection.

• Components must be put on in theproper order and correctly secured.

Slide 78Limitations of the StructuralFirefighting Ensemble(2 of 3)• PPE is heavy and can cause fatigue.

• PPE retains body heat and perspiration.

– Fire fighters in full PPE can rapidlydevelop elevated body temperatures.

Slide 79Limitations of the StructuralFirefighting Ensemble(3 of 3)• PPE limits mobility and range of

motion.

• PPE also decreases normal sensory abilities.

Slide 80Work Uniforms• A work uniform is also part of the per-

sonal protective package.

• Clothing containing nylon or polyestermay melt.

• Volunteer fire fighters should considerthese fabric properties when selectingtheir wardrobe.

Slide 81Donning and Doffing PPE• Donning and Doffing PPE

• Donning PPE must be done in a specificorder to obtain maximum protection.

• Fire fighters should be able to don PPEin one minute or less.

• To doff PPE, reverse the procedure usedin getting dressed.



D. Care of Personal Protective Clothing1. A complete set of approved turnout clothing (excluding SCBA) costs more than

$1,000.

2. PPE is the only thing that stands between you and fire or a dangerousenvironment.

3. Check the condition of PPE on a regular basis.

4. Repair worn or damaged PPE at once.

5. Clean PPE when necessary.a. PPE that has been badly soiled by exposure to smoke, other products of com-

bustion, melted tar, petroleum products, or other contaminants needs to becleaned as soon as possible.

b. Items that have been exposed to chemicals or hazardous materials may haveto be impounded for decontamination or disposal.

c. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions (on a tag attached to the in-side of the PPE).

E. Specialized Protective Clothing1. Vehicle Extrication

a. Most members of the emergency team will wear full turnout gear.b. Some protective clothing, such as special gloves and coveralls or jumpsuits,

is specifically designed for vehicle extrication and is generally lighter inweight and more flexible than structural firefighting PPE.

c. Latex gloves should be worn when providing patient treatment.d. Eye protection also should be worn, due to the possibilities of breaking glass,

contact with body fluids, metal debris, and accidents with tools.

2. Wildland Firesa. Firefighting gear designed specially for fighting wildland or brush fires must

meet NFPA 1977, Standard on Protective Clothing and Equipment for WildlandFire Fighting.

b. The jacket and pants are made of fire-resistant materials, such as Nomex orspecially treated cotton, which are designed for comfort and maneuverabilitywhile working in the wilderness.

c. Wildland fire fighters wear a helmet of a thermo-resistant plastic, eye protec-tion, pigskin or leather gloves, and boots designed for comfort and sure foot-ing while hiking.

Slide 82Care of Personal Protective Clothing(1 of 2)• A complete set of PPE (excluding SCBA)

costs more than $1,000.

• Check the condition of PPE regularly.

• Repair worn or damaged PPE at once.

Slide 83Care of Personal Protective Clothing(2 of 2)• Clean PPE when necessary.

– When badly soiled by exposure tosmoke or other contaminants.

– PPE exposed to chemicals or hazardousmaterials may have to be impoundedfor decontamination or disposal.

– Follow the manufacturer’s cleaninginstructions.

Slide 84Specialized Personal ProtectiveClothing(1 of 2)• Vehicle Extrication PPE

– Most fire fighters will wear fullturnout gear.

– Some PPE is specifically designed forvehicle extrication and is generallylighter in weight and more flexiblethan structural firefighting PPE.

– Latex gloves should be worn whenproviding patient treatment.

– Eye protection also should be worn.

Slide 85Specialized Protective Clothing(2 of 2)• Wildland Fires

– PPE must meet NFPA 1977.

– Wildland PPE is made of fire-resistant materials and designed forcomfort and maneuverability.

– Fire fighters wear a helmet, eye pro-tection, gloves, and boots designedfor comfort and sure footing whilehiking.



VI. Respiratory ProtectionTime: 45 minutes

Slides: 86-135

Lecture/Discussion/Demonstration

A. Introduction to Respiratory Protection1. The interior atmosphere of a burning building is considered to be immediately

dangerous to life and health (IDLH).

2. Fire fighters must be proficient in using SCBA before they engage in interior firesuppression activities.

3. A self-contained breathing apparatus is both expensive and complicated; usingone confidently requires practice.

B. Respiratory Hazards of Fires1. Visible smoke contains many different substances, some of which are dangerous

if inhaled.

2. Smoke also contains invisible, highly toxic products of combustion.

3. Combustion consumes oxygen and can lower the oxygen concentration in theatmosphere below the level necessary to support life.

4. Smokea. Smoke has three major components: particles, vapors, and gases.b. Smoke particles consist of unburned, partially burned, and completely

burned substances, which can be toxic or irritating.c. Many smoke particles are so small that they can pass through the natural

protective mechanisms of the respiratory system and enter the lungs.d. Smoke also contains small droplets of liquids, which can be toxic or irritating.e. Many of the gases commonly produced by residential or commercial fires are

very toxic.f. Examples of gases often present in smoke include:

i. Carbon monoxide, which preferentially binds with hemoglobin, displac-ing oxygen from the bloodstream.

ii. Hydrogen cyanide, which is a narcotic gas, formed when plastic productsburn, that can render a person unconscious.

iii. Phosgene, which is an irritant gas, formed when common householdproducts burn incompletely, that can cause fluid retention in the lungsand death.

5. Oxygen Deficiencya. Normal outside or room air contains about 21% oxygen.b. Oxygen deficiency in an enclosed area occurs in two ways:

i. The fire consumes large quantities of the available oxygen, decreasing theconcentration of oxygen.

ii. The fire produces large quantities of other gases, which decrease theoxygen concentration by displacing the oxygen that would otherwise bepresent.

Slide 86Respiratory Protection• The interior atmosphere of a burning

building is considered immediately dan-gerous to life and health.

• Fire fighters must be proficient in usingSCBA before engaging in interior firesuppression activities.

• Using SCBA confidently requires practice.

Slide 87Respiratory Hazards of Fires• Three primary respiratory hazards of fires:

– Superheated air and gases

– Smoke and by-products of combustion

– Oxygen-deficient atmospheres

Slide 88Smoke• Smoke particles are unburned, partially

burned, and completely burned sub-stances which can be toxic or irritating.

• Smoke vapors, or small droplets of liq-uids, can be toxic or irritating.

• Toxic gases in smoke include:

– Carbon monoxide

– Hydrogen cyanide

– Phosgene

Slide 89Oxygen Deficiency(1 of 2)• Air is normally about 21% oxygen.

• Oxygen deficiency in an enclosed areaoccurs in two ways:

– Fire consumes large quantities of theavailable oxygen, decreasing the con-centration of oxygen.

– Fire produces large quantities of othergases, which displace the oxygen thatwould otherwise be present.



c. Atmosphere with an oxygen concentration of 19.5% or less is consideredoxygen-deficient.

d. If the oxygen level drops below 17%, people can experience disorientation,an inability to control their muscles, and irrational thinking, which can makeescaping a fire much more difficult.

e. When oxygen levels go below 10.6%, brain damage begins and breathingstops, leading to death due to asphyxiation within 10 minutes.

C. Other Toxic Environments1. Fire fighters will encounter toxic gases or oxygen-deficient atmospheres in many

emergency situations, including:a. Hazardous materials releasesb. Confined-space or below-grade structures

D. Conditions that Require Respiratory Protection1. Fire fighters frequently must operate in atmospheres that are immediately

dangerous to life or health because they contain toxic smoke or gases orbecause they are oxygen deficient.

2. Adequate respiratory protection is essential to fire fighter safety.

3. Anytime you are in an enclosed area where there is smoke, SCBA must be used.

4. SCBA should be worn during overhaul until the air has been tested and deemedsafe by your safety officer.

5. SCBA must also be used in any situation where there is a possibility of toxicgases being present or oxygen deficiency, such as a confined space.

6. Always assume that the atmosphere is hazardous until it has been tested andproven to be safe.

E. Types of Breathing Apparatus1. The two main types of self-contained breathing apparatus are open-circuit

breathing apparatus and closed-circuit breathing apparatus.a. Open-circuit breathing apparatus

i. Open-circuit apparatus is usually used for structural firefighting.ii. A tank of compressed air provides the breathing air supply for the user.

iii. Exhaled air is released into the atmosphere through a one-way valve.

b. Closed-circuit breathing apparatusi. Closed-circuit apparatus is more often used for extended operations, such

as mine rescue work, where breathing apparatus must be worn for a longtime.

ii. The air passes through a mechanism that removes carbon dioxide andadds oxygen within a closed system.

Slide 90Oxygen Deficiency(2 of 2)Table 2-3

Slide 91Other Toxic Environments• Fire fighters will encounter toxic gases

or oxygen-deficient atmospheres in manyemergency situations, including:

– Hazardous materials releases

– Confined-space or below-gradestructures

Slide 92Conditions that Require RespiratoryProtection• SCBA must be used:

– in enclosed areas where there is smoke

– during overhaul until the air has beentested and deemed safe by the safetyofficer

– whenever toxic gases or an oxygen-deficient atmosphere is possible

• Golden rule: Always assume that the at-mosphere is hazardous until it has beentested and proven to be safe!

Slide 93Types of Breathing Apparatus(1 of 3)• Open-circuit breathing apparatus

– Most common type of SCBA used forstructural firefighting

– Tank of compressed air provides thebreathing air supply for the user.

– Exhaled air is released into the atmos-phere through a one-way valve.

Slide 94Types of Breathing Apparatus(2 of 3)• Closed-circuit breathing apparatus

– Seldom used for structural firefighting

– Air passes through a mechanism thatremoves carbon dioxide and addsoxygen within a closed system.



2. A supplied-air respirator uses a hose line that is connected to a breathing-aircompressor or to compressed air cylinders located outside the hazardous area.a. Supplied-air respirators are not used by fire fighters for structural firefighting.b. Hazardous materials teams and confined space rescue teams sometimes use

supplied-air respirators for specialized operations.

F. SCBA Standards and Regulations1. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) sets the

design, testing, and certification requirements for SCBA.

2. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and stateagencies are responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations forrespiratory protection programs.

3. The NFPA has developed three standards directly related to SCBA:a. NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Pro-

gram, includes the basic requirements for SCBA use and program management.b. NFPA 1404, Standard for Fire Service Respiratory Protection Training, sets re-

quirements for an SCBA training program within a fire department.c. NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus for

Fire and Emergency Services, includes requirements for the design, perfor-mance, testing, and certification of open-circuit SCBA for the fire service.

G. Uses and Limitations of SCBA1. Limitations of the Equipment

a. Because an SCBA carries its own air supply in a pressurized cylinder, its useis limited by the amount of air in the cylinder.

i. SCBA for structural firefighting must carry enough air for a minimum of 30 minutes. Cylinders rated for 45 minutes and 60 minutes are alsoavailable.

ii. Duration ratings are based on ideal laboratory conditions.iii. An SCBA cylinder will generally have a realistic useful life of 50% of its

rated time.

Slide 95Types of Breathing Apparatus(3 of 3)• Supplied-air respirator:

– Uses a hose line connected to abreathing-air compressor or to com-pressed air cylinders located outsidethe hazardous area

– Not used for structural firefighting

– Sometimes used for specialized operations

Slide 96SCBA Standards and Regulations(1 of 2)• NIOSH

– sets the design, testing, and certifica-tion requirements for SCBA

• OSHA and state agencies

– are responsible for establishing andenforcing regulations for respiratoryprotection programs

Slide 97SCBA Standards and Regulations(2 of 2)• NFPA standards related to SCBA:

– NFPA 1500: basic requirements

– NFPA 1404: requirements for SCBAtraining

– NFPA 1981: requirements for design,performance, testing, and certificationof open-circuit SCBA

Slide 98Limitations of SCBA(1 of 3)• Duration of work using SCBA limited by

the capacity of the cylinder

– SCBA for structural firefighting mustcarry enough air for a minimum of 30 minutes.

– Duration ratings based on ideal labo-ratory conditions.



b. Generally, an SCBA weighs at least 25 pounds.c. The size of the unit also makes it more difficult for the user to fit into small

places.d. Added weight and bulk decrease the user’s flexibility and mobility, and shift

the user’s center of gravity.

e. The SCBA face piece can limit visibility, particularly peripheral vision.f. The face piece may fog up under some conditions.

g. SCBA also may affect the user’s ability to communicate.h. SCBA is noisy during inhalation and exhalation, which may limit the user’s

hearing.

2. Physical Limitations of the Usera. The weight and bulk of the complete PPE ensemble limits a fire fighter’s abil-

ity to walk, climb ladders, lift weight, and crawl through restricted spaces.b. Moving with this extra weight requires additional energy, which increases air

consumption and body temperature.

3. Psychological Limitations of the Usera. Breathing through an SCBA is different from normal breathing and can be

very stressful.b. The surrounding environment, which is often dark and filled with smoke, is

foreign as well.c. Fire fighters must adjust to these stressful conditions.

H. Components of SCBA1. The backpack provides the frame for mounting the other working parts of the

SCBA.

2. The harness consists of the straps and fasteners used to attach the SCBA to thefire fighter. Most harnesses have two adjustable straps.

Slide 99Limitations of SCBA(2 of 3)• Generally, an SCBA weighs at least 25

pounds.

• Size of unit makes it more difficult foruser to fit into small places.

• Added weight and bulk decrease user’sflexibility and mobility, and shift user’scenter of gravity.

Slide 100Limitations of SCBA(3 of 3)• Face piece can limit visibility, particu-

larly peripheral vision.

• Face piece may fog up under some con-ditions.

• SCBA also may affect the user’s ability tocommunicate.

• SCBA is noisy during breathing, whichmay limit the user’s hearing.

Slide 101Physical Limitations of the User• Moving with the extra weight of SCBA

and PPE requires additional energy,which increases air consumption andbody temperature.

Slide 102Psychological Limitations of the User• Breathing through an SCBA is different

from normal breathing and can be verystressful.

• The surrounding environment, which isoften dark and filled with smoke, is for-eign as well.

• Fire fighters must adjust to these stress-ful conditions.

Slide 103Components of SCBA(1 of 3)• Backpack

– Frame for mounting the other work-ing parts of the SCBA

• Harness

– Straps and fasteners to attach theSCBA to the fire fighter



3. The air cylinder holds the breathing air for an SCBA.a. Air pressure ranges from 2200 to 4500 pounds per square inch (psi).b. The neck of an air cylinder is equipped with a hand-operated shut-off valve.c. The pressure gauge is located near the shut-off valve and shows the amount

of pressure currently in the cylinder.

4. The regulator assembly controls the flow of air to the user.

a. Inhaling decreases the air pressure in the face piece, which opens the regula-tor and releases air from the cylinder into the face piece.

b. Exhaling opens the exhalation valve, which exhausts used air into the atmosphere.

c. SCBA regulators will maintain a slightly positive air pressure in the facepiece.

i. If there is any leakage around the face piece, the positive pressure will letbreathing air seep out and prevent contaminated air from leaking in.

d. In the normal operational mode, the regulator supplies breathing air duringinhalation, stops when inhalation stops, then opens an exhalation valve toexhaust used air into the atmosphere.

e. Emergency by-pass mode releases a constant flow of breathing air into theface piece and is used only if the regulator malfunctions.

i. It is activated when the user turns on the red-colored emergency by-pass valve.ii. A fire fighter who must use the emergency by-pass mode must leave the

hazardous area immediately.f. Fire fighters should be able to operate the regulator in the dark and with

gloves on.

5. NFPA standards require that SCBA have a low-air alarm that activates when onequarter of the air supply remains.

Slide 104Components of SCBA(2 of 3)• Air cylinder

– Holds breathing air for an SCBA

– Neck equipped with a hand-operated shut-off valve

– Pressure gauge located near the shut-off valve and shows amount of pres-sure currently in cylinder

Slide 105Components of SCBA(3 of 3)• Regulator

– Controls the flow of air to the user

Slide 106SCBA Regulator Operation(1 of 3)• Inhaling

– decreases the air pressure in the facepiece, which opens the regulator andreleases air from the cylinder into theface piece

• Exhaling

– opens the exhalation valve, which ex-hausts used air into the atmosphere

Slide 107SCBA Regulator Operation(2 of 3)• SCBA regulators will maintain a slightly

positive air pressure in the face piece.

• Normal operational mode

– Regulator supplies breathing air duringinhalation, stops when inhalation stops,then opens an exhalation valve to ex-haust used air into the atmosphere.

– Controlled using the yellow-coloredon/off valve

Slide 108SCBA Regulator Operation(3 of 3)• Emergency by-pass mode

– Releases a constant flow of breathingair into the face piece

– Used only if the regulator malfunctions

– Activated when the user turns on thered-colored emergency by-pass valve



6. The face piece delivers breathing air to the fire fighter.a. The face piece assembly consists of:

i. a facemask with a clear lens,ii. an exhalation valve, and

iii. a regulator.

b. On models with a harness-mounted regulator, face pieces have a flexible low-pressure hose.

c. Later models will have the regulator attached directly to the face piece.

d. The face piece should cover the entire face.e. Some models have a voice amplification device to improve communications.f. Face pieces are manufactured in several sizes.

g. NFPA 1500 requires that all fire fighters must have their face pieces fit-testedannually to ensure that they are wearing the proper size.

I. Pathway of Air Through an SCBA

1. Breathing air is stored under pressure in the cylinder.

2. Air passes through the cylinder shut-off valve into the high-pressure air line, orhose, that takes it to the regulator.

3. The regulator reduces the high pressure air to low pressure.

4. Next the air goes directly into the face piece.

5. From the face piece, the air is inhaled through the user’s air passages and intothe lungs.

6. When the user exhales, used air is returned to the face piece.

7. Exhaled air is exhausted from the face piece through the exhalation valve.

Slide 109SCBA Face Piece Assembly(1 of 3)• Face piece assembly consists of:

– Facemask with a clear lens

– Exhalation valve

– Regulator

Slide 110SCBA Face Piece Assembly(2 of 3)• Models with harness-mounted regulator

face pieces have a flexible low-pressurehose.

• Later models will have the regulator at-tached directly to the face piece.

Slide 111SCBA Face Piece Assembly(3 of 3)• Face piece should cover the entire face.

• Some models have a voice amplificationdevice to improve communications.

• Face pieces manufactured in several sizes.

Slide 112Pathway of Air through an SCBA(1 of 2)• Air passes through the cylinder shut-off

valve into the high-pressure hose thattakes it to the regulator.

• Regulator reduces high pressure air tolow pressure.

• Air next goes directly into the face piece.

Slide 113Pathway of Air through an SCBA(2 of 2)• From the face piece, the air is inhaled

through the user’s air passages and intothe lungs.

• When the user exhales, used air is re-turned to the face piece.

• Exhaled air is exhausted from the facepiece through the exhalation valve.



J. Skip-Breathing Technique1. The skip-breathing technique helps conserve air while using an SCBA in a

firefighting situation.

2. Take a short breath, hold, take a second short breath (do not exhale in betweenbreaths).

3. Relax with a long exhale.

4. Each breath should take five seconds.

K. Mounting Breathing Apparatus1. SCBA should be located so that fire fighters can don it quickly when they arrive

at the scene of a fire.

2. Seat-mounted brackets enable fire fighters to don SCBA en route to anemergency scene, without unfastening their seat belts or otherwise endangeringthemselves.

3. Compartment-mounted SCBA brackets should be positioned high enough foreasy donning of SCBA units.

4. An exterior-mounted SCBA should be protected from weather and dirt by asecure cover.

5. Keeping SCBA in a storage case is most appropriate for transporting extra SCBAunits, but not for transporting SCBA that will be used during the initial phase ofoperations at a fire scene.

L. Donning SCBA

1. Fire fighters must be able to don and activate SCBA in one minute.

2. Fire fighters must be wearing full PPE before donning SCBA.

3. Before beginning the actual donning process, fire fighters must carefully checkthe SCBA to ensure it is ready for operation.

a. Check to be sure the air cylinder has at least 90% of its rated pressure.b. If the SCBA has a donning/doffing switch, be sure that it is activated. c. Open the cylinder valve two or three turns, listen for the low-air alarm to

sound, and then open the valve fully.

Slide 114Skip-Breathing Technique• Skip-breathing helps conserve air.

• Take a short breath, hold, take a secondshort breath (do not exhale in betweenbreaths).

• Relax with a long exhale.

• Each breath should take 5 seconds.

Slide 115Mounting Breathing Apparatus• SCBA should be located so that fire fight-

ers can don it quickly when they arriveat the scene of a fire.

• Exterior-mounted SCBA should be pro-tected from weather and dirt by a securecover.

Slide 116Donning SCBA• Fire fighters must be able to don and ac-

tivate SCBA in one minute.

• Fire fighters must be wearing full PPEbefore donning SCBA.

• Check the SCBA to ensure it is ready foroperation before donning it.

Slide 117Pre-donning SCBA Check(1 of 2)• Check that air cylinder has at least 90%

of its rated pressure.

• If the SCBA has a donning/doffingswitch, be sure that it is activated.

• Open the cylinder valve two or threeturns, listen for the low-air alarm tosound, and then open the valve fully.



d. Check the pressure gauges on the regulator and on the cylinder. Both gaugesshould read within 100 psi of each other.

e. Check all harness straps to be sure they are fully extended. f. Check all valves to be sure they are in the correct position. (An open by-pass

valve will waste air.)

M. Donning SCBA from an Apparatus Seat Mount1. Don all protective clothing before mounting the apparatus.

2. Place arms through the shoulder straps while sitting down, and then fasten theseat belt.a. Or fasten the seat belt first and then slide one arm at a time through the

shoulder straps of the SCBA harness.

3. Partially tighten the shoulder straps while seated.

4. Upon arriving at the emergency scene, release the seat belt, activate the bracketrelease, and exit the apparatus.

5. Be sure to take a face piece.

6. After exiting the apparatus, attach the waist strap, and then tighten and adjustthe shoulder and waist straps.

7. Donning SCBA from a seat-mounted bracket will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-3.

N. Donning SCBA from a Compartment Mount1. Slide one arm through the shoulder harness strap then slide the other arm

through the other shoulder strap.

2. Release the SCBA from the mounting bracket.

3. Adjust the shoulder straps to carry the SCBA fairly high on the back.

4. Attach the ends of the waist strap and tighten the waist strap.

5. Donning SCBA from a side-mounted compartment or bracket will be practicedin Skill Drill 2-4.

O. Donning SCBA from the Ground, the Floor, or a StorageCase1. Fire fighters must sometimes don an SCBA that is stored in a case or on the ground.

2. Either of two methods can be used—the over-the-head method or the coat method.a. Over-the-Head Method

i. Place the SCBA on the ground or on the floor with the cylinder valve fac-ing away from you.

ii. Lay the shoulder straps out to each side of the backpack.iii. Grasp the backplate with both hands and lift the SCBA over your head.iv. Let the backpack slide down your back.v. The straps will slide down your arms.

vi. Balance the unit on your back.vii. Attach and tighten the waist strap and then tighten the shoulder straps.

viii. Donning SCBA using the over-the-head method will be practiced in SkillDrill 2-5.

b. Coat Methodi. Place the SCBA on the ground or on the floor with the cylinder valve fac-

ing toward you.ii. Spread out and extend the shoulder straps.

iii. Use your left hand to grasp the left shoulder strap close to the backplate.iv. Use your right hand to grasp the right shoulder strap farther away from

the backplate.

Slide 118Pre-donning SCBA Check(2 of 2)• Check that pressure gauges on both the

regulator and cylinder read within 100psi of each other.

• Check that all harness straps are fully ex-tended.

• Check that all valves are in the correctposition.

– An open by-pass valve will waste air.



v. Swing the SCBA over your left shoulder.vi. Release your right arm and slide it through the right shoulder harness strap.

vii. Tighten both shoulder straps.viii. Attach and tighten the waist belt.ix. Donning SCBA using the coat method will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-6.

P. Donning the Face Piece1. To perform correctly, the face piece must be the correct size and it must be

adjusted to fit your face.

2. There must be no facial hair in the seal area.

3. Eyeglasses that pass through the seal area cannot be worn with a face piece.

4. Donning a face piece will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-7.

Q. Safety Precautions for SCBA1. Learn to recognize the low-air alarm on your SCBA.

a. As soon as your alarm goes off, you must exit the hazardous environment be-fore your air supply is depleted.

b. Before you enter a hazardous environment, make sure your PASS device isactivated.

2. Be sure you are properly logged into your accountability system.

3. Always work in teams of two in hostile environments.

4. Always have at least two fire fighters outside at the ready whenever two firefighters are working in a hostile environment.

R. Preparing for Emergency Situations1. Fire fighters must be prepared to react if an emergency situation occurs while

they are using SCBA.

2. Keep calm, stop, and think.

3. Exit the hostile environment.

4. If you are in danger, activate your PASS device.

5. Use your hand light to attract attention.

6. If you have a portable radio, call for help.

S. Doffing SCBA1. Follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer and your

department’s SOPs.

2. In general, you should reverse the steps used to don SCBA.

3. Doffing SCBA will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-8.

Slide 119Safety Precautions for SCBA(1 of 2)• Learn to recognize the low-air alarm.

• As soon as your alarm goes off, you mustexit the hazardous environment.

• Before you enter a hazardous environment,make sure your PASS device is activated.

Slide 120Safety Precautions for SCBA(2 of 2)• Be sure you are properly logged into

your accountability system.

• Always work in teams of two.

• Always have at least two fire fighters out-side at the ready.

Slide 121Preparing for Emergency Situations• Be prepared to react if an emergency oc-

curs while using SCBA.

• Keep calm, stop, and think.

• Exit the hostile environment.

• If in danger, activate your PASS.

• Use your hand light to attract attention.

• Use a portable radio to call for help.

Slide 122Doffing SCBA• Follow procedures recommended by the

manufacturer and your department’s SOPs.

• In general, you should reverse the stepsfor donning SCBA.



T. Putting It All Together1. Although donning personal protective clothing and donning and operating

SCBA can be learned and practiced separately, you must be able to integratethese skills to have a complete PPE ensemble.a. Place the protective hood over your head.b. Put on your bunker pants and boots. Adjust the suspenders and secure the

front flap of the pants. c. Put on your turnout coat and secure the front.d. Open the air-cylinder valve on your SCBA and check the air pressure.e. Put on your SCBA.f. Tighten both shoulder straps.

g. Attach the waist belt and tighten it.h. Fit the face piece to your face.i. Tighten the straps, beginning with the lowest straps.j. Check the face piece for a proper seal.

k. Pull the protective hood up so that it covers all bare skin, but does not ob-scure vision.

l. Place your helmet on your head with the ear tabs extended and secure thechin strap.

m. Turn up your coat collar and secure it in front.n. Put on your gloves.o. Check your clothing to be sure it is properly secured.p. Be sure your PASS device is turned on.q. Attach your regulator or turn it on to start the flow of breathing air.

U. SCBA Inspection and Maintenance1. SCBA must be properly serviced and prepared for the next use each time it is

used, whether it is an actual emergency incident or a training exercise.

2. The air cylinder must be changed or refilled.

3. The face piece and regulator must be sanitized according to the manufacturer’sinstructions.

4. The unit must be cleaned, inspected, and checked for proper operation.

5. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that the SCBA is in ready condition beforeit is returned to the fire apparatus.

6. The daily inspection procedure should be used when restoring a unit to serviceafter it has been used.

Slide 123Putting It All Together• Complete PPE ensemble consists of per-

sonal protective clothing and SCBA.

• You must be able to integrate donningPPE and donning SCBA.

Slide 124SCBA Inspection and Maintenance(1 of 4)• SCBA must be properly serviced and pre-

pared for the next use each time it is used.

• Air cylinder must be changed or refilled.

Slide 125SCBA Inspection and Maintenance(2 of 4)• Face piece and regulator must be sani-

tized according to the manufacturer’s in-structions.

• Unit must be cleaned, inspected, andchecked for proper operation.

Slide 126SCBA Inspection and Maintenance(3 of 4)• It is the user’s responsibility to ensure

that the SCBA is in ready condition be-fore it is returned to the fire apparatus.

• The daily inspection procedure shouldbe used when restoring a unit to serviceafter it has been used.



7. If an SCBA inspection reveals any problems that cannot be remedied by routinemaintenance, the SCBA must be removed from service for repair.

8. Only properly trained and certified personnel are authorized to repair SCBA.

9. Daily Inspectiona. Each SCBA unit should be inspected daily or at the beginning of each shift.b. When fire stations are not staffed, SCBA should be inspected at least once a

week.c. Daily SCBA inspection will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-9.

10. Monthly Inspectiona. SCBA should be completely checked each month for proper operation, for

leaks, and for any deterioration.b. Monthly SCBA inspection will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-10.

11. Annual Inspectiona. A complete annual inspection and maintenance must be performed on each

SCBA.b. The annual inspection must be performed by a certified manufacturer’s repre-

sentative or a person who has been trained and certified to perform thiswork.

V. Servicing SCBA Cylinders1. Cylinders must be regularly inspected and tested to ensure they are safe.

2. Cylinders must be visually inspected during daily and monthly inspections.

3. More detailed inspection is required if a cylinder has been exposed to excessiveheat, came into contact with flame, was exposed to chemicals, or dropped.

4. The U.S. Department of Transportation requires hydrostatic testing for SCBAcylinders on a periodic basis and limits the number of years that a cylinder canbe used.

5. Hydrostatic testing identifies defects or damage that render the cylinder unsafe.

W. Replacing SCBA Cylinders1. A single fire fighter must doff SCBA to replace the air cylinder.

2. Two fire fighters working together can change cylinders without removing SCBA.

3. A fire fighter should be able to change cylinders in the dark and while wearing gloves.

4. Follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer and by department SOPs.

5. Replacing an SCBA cylinder will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-11.

Slide 127SCBA Inspection and Maintenance(4 of 4)• If an SCBA inspection reveals any prob-

lems that cannot be remedied by routinemaintenance, the SCBA must be removedfrom service for repair.

• Only properly trained and certified per-sonnel are authorized to repair SCBA.

Slide 128Daily Inspection• Each SCBA unit should be inspected

daily or at the beginning of each shift.

• When fire stations are not staffed, SCBAshould be inspected at least once a week.

Slide 129Monthly Inspection• SCBA should be completely checked

each month for proper operation, forleaks, and for any deterioration.

Slide 130Annual Inspection• Complete annual inspection and mainte-

nance must be performed on each SCBA.

• Annual inspection must be performed bya certified manufacturer’s representativeor a person who has been trained andcertified to perform this work.

Slide 131Servicing SCBA Cylinders• Cylinders must be visually inspected

during daily and monthly inspections.

• Federal law requires periodic hydrostatictesting and limits the number of years acylinder can be used.

Slide 132Replacing SCBA Cylinders• A single fire fighter must doff SCBA to

replace the air cylinder.

• Two fire fighters working together canchange cylinders without removing SCBA.

• A fire fighter should be able to changecylinders in the dark and while wearinggloves.



X. Refilling SCBA Cylinders1. Compressors and cascade systems are used to refill SCBA cylinders.

2. Compressor systems filter atmospheric air, compress it to a high pressure, andtransfer it to the SCBA cylinders.

3. Cascade systems use several large storage cylinders of compressed breathing airconnected by a high-pressure manifold system to transfer air from the storagetanks to the cylinder.

4. Proper training is required to fill SCBA cylinders.

Y. Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBA1. Follow manufacturers’ specific instructions for the care and cleaning of SCBA.

2. Rinse the entire unit using a hose with clean water.

3. The harness assembly and cylinder can be cleaned with a mild soap and watersolution.

4. Face pieces and regulators can be cleaned with a mild soap and warm water or adisinfectant cleaning solution.a. The face piece should be fully submerged in the cleaning solution.b. The regulator can be cleaned with the same solution, but should not be sub-

merged.c. The face piece and regulator should then be rinsed with clean water. d. Cleaning and sanitizing SCBA will be practiced in Skill Drill 2-12.

VII. SummaryTime: 5 minutes

Slides: 136-139

Lecture/Discussion

A. This chapter discussed the qualifications required tobecome a fire fighter.

B. Safety is a critical part of a fire fighter’s job.

Slide 133Refilling SCBA Cylinders• Compressors and cascade systems are

used to refill SCBA cylinders.

• Proper training is required to fill SCBAcylinders.

Slide 134Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBA(1 of 2)• Follow manufacturers’ specific instruc-

tions for care and cleaning of SCBA.

• Rinse entire unit using a hose with cleanwater.

• Clean harness assembly and cylinderwith a mild soap and water solution.

Slide 135Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBA(2 of 2)• Clean face pieces and regulators with

mild soap and warm water or disinfec-tant cleaning solution.

Slide 136Summary(1 of 4)• Qualifications required to become a fire

fighter include:

– Age

– Education

– Medical

– Physical fitness

– Emergency medical care training

• Safety is a critical part of every firefighter’s job.



C. The personal protective ensemble includes a helmet, aprotective hood, a turnout coat, bunker pants, boots,gloves, SCBA, and a PASS device.1. All parts of the ensemble must be donned and in place for maximum protection.

2. Fire fighters must be able to don protective clothing in one minute or less.

3. Fire fighters also must care for and maintain PPE properly so that it works as itshould.

D. The primary respiratory protection equipment used by thefire service is the open-circuit SCBA.

1. This chapter described the limitations of SCBA, the physical limitations of theuser, the psychological limitations of the user, and the relationship of thesefactors to the safe use of SCBA.

2. The fire fighter should be able to don SCBA in one minute or less.

3. Regular inspection and proper maintenance of SCBA is vital to your safety and isan important responsibility of every fire fighter.

VIII. Skill DrillsTime: 180 minutes

Slides: Chapter 2 Skill Drills PowerPoint Presentation

Demonstration/Group Activity

Remember to maintain an adequate instructor to student ratio.

PurposeFollowing instructor-facilitated demonstrations, this activity allows students toobserve and demonstrate competency in the use of SCBA, PPE, and fire fightersafety and accountability systems.

Materials Needed1. One set of fire fighter PPE per student (each student should have his or her own

issued PPE for the duration of the course)

2. One SCBA per student

3. Fire fighter accountability system equipment used in the local jurisdiction

Slide 137Summary(2 of 4)• Fire fighter PPE includes:

– Helmet

– Protective hood

– Turnout coat

– Bunker pants

– Boots

– Gloves

– SCBA

– PASS device

Slide 138Summary(3 of 4)• The primary respiratory protection

equipment used by the fire service is theopen-circuit SCBA.

– Fire fighters must know the limita-tions of SCBA, their own physical andpsychological limitations.

– Fire fighters should be able to donSCBA in one minute or less.

Slide 139Summary(4 of 4)• Regular inspection and proper mainte-

nance of SCBA is vital to fire fightersafety and is an important responsibilityof every fire fighter.



Instructor Directions1. Demonstrate each skill, placing emphasis on describing to the students any critical points or procedures.

2. On the basis of the specific skill, assign each student to a partner or team. Provide each partner/team with equipment or materialsas needed. Each student should have his or her own issued PPE for the duration of the course. Students should not be allowed toshare PPE.

3. Students should be introduced to the concept of personnel accountability in the first Skill Drill. For the duration of the course,students should employ accountability procedures in accordance with the local jurisdiction’s personnel accountability systemwhenever they are engaged in Skill Drills. Continual reinforcement of accountability procedures will increase the likelihood thatthey are followed on the fireground.

4. Direct students to practice each skill. Closely monitor the practice sessions and provide constructive comments and redirecting.

5. As individual students achieve success, track their skills and conduct skill proficiency exams using the Skill Drill Evaluation Sheetsthat follow. Students failing the exam should be given redirection and an opportunity to practice before being retested.


© 2004 Jones and Bartlett Publishers and National Fire Protection Association.

Candidate: Date:

ID#:

Evaluator Comments: Candidate Comments:

Evaluator Date Candidate Date

Retest Evaluator Date Retest Candidate Date

Skill Drill 2-1 Donning Personal Protective EquipmentEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, and helmet. The evaluator will need a stop watch.

Task: Don personal protective clothing within one (1) minute.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don personal protective clothing in one minute.

Candidate Directive: “Properly don the personal protective clothing within one minute.”

No. Task Steps First Test Retest

P F P F

1. Places equipment in logical order for donning.

2. Places protective hood over head and down around neck.

3. Puts boots on and pulls up bunker pants.

4. Places suspenders over shoulders and secures the front of pants.

5. Dons turnout coat and closes front.

6. Pulls protective hood over head.

7. Places helmet on head and adjusts chinstrap.

8. Turns up coat collar and secures in front.

9. Dons gloves.

Retest Approved By: Retest Evaluator:





Candidate: Date:

ID#:


Skill Drill 2-2 Doffing Personal Protective ClothingEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, and helmet. The candidate will have already donned the PPE.

Task: Doff personal protective clothing.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly doff personal protective clothing.

Candidate Directive: “Properly doff the personal protective clothing.”


P F P F

1. Removes gloves.

2. Opens the collar of the turnout coat.

3. Releases the helmet chin strap and removes helmet.

4. Removes turnout coat.

5. Removes protective hood.

6. Removes bunker pants and boots.




Candidate: Date:

ID#:




Skill Drill 2-3 Donning SCBA from a Seat-Mounted BracketEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE. The evaluator will need to have a stop watch.

Task: Don SCBA from a seat-mounted bracket within one (1) minute.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don SCBA from a seat-mounted bracket in one minute.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE, properly don the seat-mounted SCBA in less than one minute.”


P F P F

1. Dons full PPE ensemble prior to mounting fire apparatus.

2. Safely mounts apparatus and sits in seat, placing arms through SCBA shoulder straps.

3. Fastens seat belt.

4. Partially tightens shoulder straps.

5. When the apparatus stops, releases seatbelt and SCBA from bracket.

6. Exits apparatus.

7. Attaches waist belt and adjusts.

8. Adjusts shoulder straps.

9. Opens main cylinder valve.

10. Removes helmet and pulls back hood.

11. Dons face piece and checks for adequate seal.

12. Replaces protective hood and helmet and secures chinstrap.

13. If necessary, connects regulator to face piece.

14. Activates airflow and PASS alarm.






Candidate: Date:

ID#:


Skill Drill 2-4 Donning SCBA from a Side-Mounted Compartment or BracketEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE. The evaluator will need a stop watch.

Task: Don SCBA from a side-mounted bracket within one (1) minute.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don SCBA from a side-mounted bracket in one minute.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE, properly don the side-mounted SCBA in less than one minute.”


P F P F

1. Approaches SCBA and fully opens main cylinder valve.

2. Turns back to SCBA, slides arms through shoulder straps, and partially tightens straps.

3. Releases SCBA from bracket and steps away from apparatus.

4. Attaches waist strap and adjusts.


6. Removes helmet and pulls hood back.


8. Pulls protective hood into position, replaces helmet, and secures chinstrap.


10. Activates air flow and PASS alarm




Candidate: Date:

ID#:




Skill Drill 2-5 Donning SCBA Using the Over-the-Head MethodEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE. The evaluator will need a stop watch.

Task: Don SCBA using the over-the-head method within one (1) minute.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don SCBA using the over-the-head method in one minute.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE, properly don the SCBA using the over-the-head method in less than one minute.”


P F P F

1. Opens case and lays out SCBA with cylinder valve away from self and places shoulder

straps out to the sides.

2. Fully opens main cylinder valve.

3. Bends down and grasps SCBA back plate with both hands.

4. Uses legs to lift SCBA over head.

5. Balances the back plate on back.

6. Slides SCBA down back while arms slide into shoulder straps.

7. Tightens shoulder straps and secures waist belt.

8. Removes helmet and pulls hood back.

9. Dons face piece and checks for an adequate seal.








Candidate: Date:

ID#:

Skill Drill 2-6 Donning SCBA Using the Coat MethodEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE. The evaluator will need a stop watch.

Task: Don SCBA using the coat method within one (1) minute.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don SCBA using the coat method in one minute.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE, properly don the SCBA using the coat method in less than one minute.”


P F P F

1. Opens case and lays out SCBA with cylinder valve toward self.

2. Fully opens main cylinder valve.

3. Places left hand on left shoulder strap close to back plate.

4. Places right hand on right shoulder strap.

5. Lifts SCBA and swings it over left shoulder.

6. Releases right hand and allows arm to slide between shoulder strap and the SCBA cylinder.

7. Places left arm through left strap.


9. Attaches waist belt and adjusts.

10. Removes helmet and pulls back protective hood.



13. If necessary, connects regulator to the face piece.







Candidate: Date:

ID#:




Skill Drill 2-7 Donning a Face PieceEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE as well as SCBA.

Task: Don a face piece.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly don a face piece and have an adequate seal.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE and SCBA, properly don a face piece.”


P F P F

1. Fully extends straps on face piece.

2. Places chin in chin pocket.

3. Fits face piece to face.

4. Tightens lowest two straps.

5. If there are more straps, tightens the upper ones last.

6. Checks for adequate seal.

7. Pulls protective hood into place, covers all bare skin, and dons helmet.

8. Installs regulator to face piece or attaches low-pressure air supply hose to regulator.





Candidate: Date:

ID#:

Skill Drill 2-8 Doffing SCBAEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): boots, pants, coat,hood, gloves, helmet, SCBA, and face piece. The candidate will have already donned PPE and SCBA.

Task: Doff the SCBA.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly doff the SCBA.

Candidate Directive: “While wearing PPE and SCBA, properly doff the SCBA.”


P F P F

1. Removes gloves. Removes regulator from face piece or disconnects low-pressure hose from

regulator.

2. Removes helmet and pulls protective hood down.

3. Loosens face piece straps

4. Removes face piece.

5. Releases waist belt.

6. Loosens shoulder straps and removes SCBA.

7. Shuts off air-cylinder valve.

8. Bleeds air pressure from regulator.

9. Places SCBA in safe location.






Candidate: Date:

ID#:




Skill Drill 2-9 Daily SCBA InspectionEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with SCBA.

Task: Daily inspection of SCBA.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly complete a daily inspection of SCBA.

Candidate Directive: “Properly inspect SCBA using daily inspection criteria.”


P F P F

1. Checks pack and harness straps.

2. Checks air-cylinder pressure.

3. Turns on air-cylinder valve and compares gauge pressures.

4. Checks condition of all hoses while pressurized.

5. Activates integrated PASS device, if present

6. Checks face piece.

7. Connects face piece to regulator and takes test breaths.

8. Closes cylinder valve and opens emergency by-pass valve.

9. Checks function and activation pressure of low-air alarm.

10. Closes by-pass valve and restores unit to ready condition.





Candidate: Date:

ID#:

Skill Drill 2-10 Monthly SCBA InspectionEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with SCBA. (The candidate may need forms from the AHJ to completedocumentation.)

Task: Monthly inspection of SCBA.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly complete a monthly inspection of SCBA.

Candidate Directive: “Properly inspect SCBA using monthly inspection criteria.”


P F P F

1. Removes SCBA from apparatus and places on floor or bench.

2. Inspects mounting bracket for damage or wear.

3. Examines overall condition of SCBA and notes any damage.

4. Removes cylinder from the harness and checks hydrostatic test date.

5. Checks cylinder for damage and wear.

6. Inspects shoulder straps and waist belt.

7. Checks all buckles and fasteners.

8. Examines the back plate for damage, cracks, or rust.

9. Makes sure all connection points between the cylinder and the SCBA harness operate

properly and are free of damage or corrosion.

10. Reattaches the cylinder to the harness.

11. Checks all hoses and connection points for wear, cuts, or damage.

12. Activates cylinder valve and compares pressure gauge readings.

13. Attaches face piece and checks regulator for proper operation.

14. Allow SCBA to sit idle until PASS activates.

15. Closes cylinder valve and opens by-pass valve to bleed pressure while checking low-

pressure alarm.

16. Returns unit to mounting bracket in ready condition.

17. Completes all necessary paperwork.






Candidate: Date:

ID#:




Skill Drill 2-11 Replacing an SCBA CylinderEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with an SCBA and spare cylinder.

Task: Replacing an SCBA cylinder.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly replace an SCBA cylinder.

Candidate Directive: “Properly replace an SCBA cylinder.”


P F P F

1. Removes regulator from face piece or shuts off air supply from regulator.

2. Doffs SCBA.

3. Turns off cylinder valve.

4. Opens by-pass valve to bleed off pressure.

5. Disconnects high-pressure supply hose.

6. Releases cylinder from backpack.

7. Slides full cylinder in the backpack.

8. Aligns outlet to supply hose.

9. Locks cylinder into place.

10. Checks condition and presence of “O” ring.

11. Connects high-pressure hose to air cylinder.

12. Opens cylinder valve and checks gauge readings.

13. Dons SCBA





Candidate: Date:

ID#:

Skill Drill 2-12 Cleaning and Sanitizing SCBAEvaluator Instructions: The candidate shall be provided with an SCBA, face piece, clean water, stiff brush, soft brush, mild soap, and a 5-gallon bucket.

Task: Cleaning and sanitizing SCBA and face piece.

Performance Outcome: The candidate shall be able to properly clean and sanitize SCBA and face piece.

Candidate Directive: “Properly clean and sanitize an SCBA and face piece.”


P F P F

1. Inspects SCBA before cleaning.

2. Removes face piece from regulator.

3. Detaches SCBA cylinder from harness.

4. Rinses all parts of SCBA with clean water.

5. Scrubs SCBA cylinder and harness with soapy water, rinses, and allows to dry.

6. Prepares cleaning solution.

7. Submerges the SCBA face piece in solution.

8. Washes regulator with solution.

9. If necessary, scrubs contaminants from face piece and regulator with soft brush.

10. Rinses face piece and regulator and allows to dry.

11. Reassembles and inspects SCBA





Post-Lecture

I. Wrap-Up ActivitiesTime: 40 minutes

Small Group Activity/Individual Activity/Discussion

A. Fire Fighter in ActionThis activity is designed to assist the student in gaining a further understanding of fire fighter qualifications and safety. Theactivity incorporates both critical thinking and the application of fire fighter knowledge.

PurposeThis activity allows students an opportunity to analyze a firefighting scenario and develop responses to critical thinkingquestions.

Instructor Directions1. Direct students to read the “Fire Fighter in Action” scenario located in the Wrap-Up section at the end of Chapter 2.

2. Direct students to read and individually answer the quiz questions at the end of the scenario. Allow approximately 10 minutes forthis part of the activity. Facilitate a class review and dialogue of the answers, allowing students to correct responses as needed. Usethe answers noted below to assist in building this review. Allow approximately 10 minutes for this part of the activity.

3. You may also assign these as individual activities and ask students to turn in their comments on a separate piece of paper.

Answers to Multiple Choice Questions1. Answer B: The order of donning your PPE is important to ensure it is fastened securely and that it provides whole body protection.

For instance, donning your bunker coat prior to your pants and boots will prohibit you from properly placing your suspenders. It isimpossible to don your face piece while wearing your helmet. Nor would you be able to don your turnout coat over your SCBA.

2. Answer D: When a company is dispatched to an emergency, fire fighters need to get to the apparatus and don appropriate PPEquickly before mounting the vehicle and proceeding to the incident. Personal protective gear should be properly positioned soyou can don it quickly before getting into the apparatus. Be sure that seat belts are properly fastened before the apparatus beginsto move. All personnel responding on fire apparatus must be seated with seat belts fastened. Seat belts should remain fasteneduntil the apparatus comes to a complete stop.

3. Answer D. Partners or assigned team members should enter together, work together, and leave together. If one member of a teammust leave the fire building for any reason, the entire team must leave together, regardless if it is a two-person team or an entirecrew working as a team. Partners should check each other’s PPE to ensure it is on and working correctly before they enter ahazardous area. Team members working in a hazardous area should maintain visual, vocal, or physical contact with each other atall times.

4. Answer B: A PASS is an electronic device that sounds a loud audible signal when a fire fighter becomes trapped or injured. A PASSwill sound automatically if a fire fighter is motionless for a set time period. The PASS can also be manually activated to notify otherfire fighters that the user needs assistance.

B. Technology ResourcesThis activity requires students to have access to the Internet. This may be accomplished through personal access, employeraccess, or through a local educational institution. Some community colleges, universities, or adult education centers mayhave classrooms with Internet capability that will allow for this activity to be completed in class. Check out local accesspoints and encourage students to complete this activity as part of their ongoing reinforcement of firefighting knowledgeand skills.

Lesson Plan


PurposeTo provide students an opportunity to reinforce chapter material through use of online Internet activities.

Instructor Directions1. Use the Internet and go to www.FireFighter.jbpub.com. Follow the directions on the web site to access the exercises for Chapter 2.

2. Review the chapter activities and take note of desired or correct student responses.

3. As time allows, conduct an in-class review of the Internet activities and provide feedback to students as needed.

4. Be sure to check the web site before assigning these activities, as specific chapter-related activities may change from time to time.

II. Lesson ReviewTime: 15 minutes

LectureNote: Facilitate the review of this lesson’s major topics using the review questions as direct questions or overhead transparencies.Answers are found throughout this lesson plan.

A.What laws and standards govern training and performance qualifications for fire fighters?

B. Why is it necessary to have physical fitness standards for fire fighters?

C. Who is ultimately responsible for each fire fighter’s safety on the fireground?

D. What is the most frequent killer of fire fighters?

E. From the standpoint of safety, who is the fire fighter concerned about and in what order?

F. What are standard operating procedures (or guidelines), and why do fire departments need them?

G. What is an Incident Management System?

H. What is “freelancing” and what are the concerns about freelancing?

I. What are the elements of a complete fire fighter’s personal protective ensemble?

J. Can safety standards be relaxed somewhat during training? If not, why?

K. What is the “buddy system,” and how does it operate to improve fire fighter safety?

L. What is a personnel accountability system? How does the one in use in your area operate?

M. What is the function of the rehabilitation area on the fireground?

N. What purpose does a “vapor barrier” in a fire fighter turnout coat and bunker pants serve?

O. When is the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) mandatory?

P. What is the difference between an integrated PASS and a belt-mounted PASS?

Q. What is the most common respiratory hazard found on the fireground?

R. What is the oxygen concentration of normal room air?

S. What type of SCBA is most commonly used in structural firefighting?

T. How often and under what circumstances does an SCBA need to be checked?

III. AssignmentsTime: 5 minutes

Lecture

A. Advise students to review materials for a quiz (determine date/time).

B. Direct students to read the next chapter in Fundamentals of Fire Fighter Skills as listed in your syllabus (or reading assignmentsheet) to prepare for the next class session.


IV. Instructor Keyed QuizTime: 15 minutes

Individual Activity

1. True or False: Federal law specifies the training requirements for fire fighters.Answer: b

a. Trueb. False

2. Your engine company is extinguishing a fire in a single-family dwelling. You see two fire fighters preparing to climb to the roof ofthe building, which you have previously been advised is weakened due to prolonged exposure to fire. You should:

Answer: da. notify the incident commander.b. notify the safety officer.c. notify the company officer.d. all of the above.

3. What is the leading cause of fire fighter fatalities?Answer: c

a. Inhalation of toxic smoke and super-heated gasesb. Contact with flamec. Heart attacksd. Being struck by falling objects

4. What is the proper order of concern for the safety of people on the fire ground?Answer: a

a. Yourself, other team members, the general publicb. The general public, yourself, other team membersc. The general public, other team members, yourselfd. Yourself, the general public, other team members

5. The fire service uses the Incident Management System to:Answer: c

a. ensure that orders are communicated and followed.b. ensure a command and control structure is in place for large-scale incidents.c. ensure a command and control structure is in place for all incidents, even small fires.d. ensure that fireground operations meet federal standards for reimbursement of expenses for disaster-scale incidents such as

wildland fires.

6. Freelancing is permissible:Answer: c

a. when your company officer says so.b. when you cannot communicate with your officer for instructions.c. at no time.d. at most times, except when lives are in danger.

7. True or False: The safety officer has the final authority on the fireground.Answer: b

a. Trueb. False


8. Which of the following is a TRUE statement?Answer: d

a. Hand tool manufacturers’ specifications and operating instructions are for the general public and are not applicable to fire ser-vice uses.

b. Only certified equipment mechanics should perform any type of maintenance on fire service tools and equipment.c. Fire service tools and equipment are fairly well standardized; therefore, fire fighters do not need to read the instructions for

each individual tool or piece of equipment.d. Fire fighters must know how to troubleshoot and maintain all equipment carried so they can fix it on the fireground if necessary.

9. You have been suffering from the flu for the last two days. You are due to work the next morning at the fire department. You crewis already short because another fire fighter on your shift has taken vacation. You feel very sick. You should:

Answer: aa. call in sick.b. show up for work and if you are not feeling well by noon, go home.c. take some medicine and work your shift .d. tough it out for the duration of the shift.

10. When is the best time to put on your protective clothing?Answer: c

a. Once you have arrived at the firegroundb. En route to the emergency in the fire apparatus (if you are not driving)c. At the station, before you get into the apparatusd. At the beginning of your shift

11. You are working on a team of three fire fighters inside a warehouse on fire. You are behind the lead fire fighter on the nozzle of ahandline attacking the fire. The fire fighter on the nozzle signals that he is low on air. You should:

Answer: ca. take over his position on the nozzle and allow him to exit the warehouse for a fresh cylinder of air.b. signal the fire fighter behind you to go back to the apparatus to get a fresh cylinder of air for the fire fighter on the nozzle.c. exit as a team of three to get another cylinder of air.d. give a “Mayday” signal on your radio to summon assistance.

12. The purpose of a personnel accountability system is:Answer: d

a. to make sure fire fighters are accountable for the tasks they have been assigned.b. to ensure that fire fighters stay in “buddy teams.”c. to provide accurate record keeping for federal reimbursement of fire fighter wages on disaster-scale incidents, such as wildland

fires.d. to ensure that all assignments, activities, locations, and status of every fire fighter on the scene are known.

13. Which of the following is not a type of personnel accountability system?Answer: a

a. Personal alert safety system (PASS)b. Passport systemc. Accountability tag systemd. Clipboard, pen, and paper

14. When can a fire fighter leave the rehabilitation area?Answer: b

a. When the fire fighter gets a fresh cylinder of airb. When the fire fighter is released by the officer in charge of the rehabilitation areac. When the company officer says that the rest break is overd. When the fire fighter feels fully rested, refreshed, and ready for another work cycle


15. What are the warning signs of heat exhaustion?Answer: b

a. Nausea, vomiting, and restlessnessb. Sweating, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and crampingc. Inability to carry even light hand tools without dropping themd. Both b and c

16. You are on an engine company dispatched to assist the ambulance with the victim of a domestic assault. When you arrive on thescene, a neighbor runs up to you screaming that she thinks someone has been shot in the house next to hers. The ambulance isarriving on the scene with the fire engine, but the police are still a few blocks away. You should:

Answer: ca. look in the windows of the house to see if you can locate a victim.b. use the public address speaker on your fire engine to inquire whether anyone in the house needs medical attention.c. inform the engine company officer so your crew can retreat a few blocks away until the police give the “all-clear” signal.d. grab the medical kit, oxygen, and automated external defibrillator in case the person who has been shot is in cardiac arrest.

17. What is a drawback of the structural firefighting protective ensemble?Answer: d

a. It will not provide sufficient protection beyond one hour of interior structural firefighting.b. There are no standards governing the manufacturing of structural firefighting protective ensembles, so there is little assurance

that any given ensemble will provide adequate protection.c. It cannot be used for anything other than structural firefighting.d. The vapor barrier prevents the release of perspiration and body heat, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion.

18. How often should PPE be washed?Answer: d

a. After every useb. Never–doing so will break down the fibers and cause the flame-retardant material to wear out fasterc. Whenever required by the manufacturerd. On a regular basis, to be determined by the individual fire department

19. When can a fire fighter remove his or her SCBA?Answer: d

a. When the air inside the structure is sufficiently clear so as to be able to see without difficultyb. When the air inside the structure no longer stings the fire fighter’s eyesc. When the most senior member of the team removes his or her SCBAd. When the safety officer indicates that the atmosphere is safe to breathe

20. What are the three gases commonly found in house fires?Answer: c

a. Carbon monoxide, hydroflouric acid, and calcium phosgenateb. Carbon monoxide, phosgene, and hydroflouric acidc. Carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and phosgened. Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydroflouric acid

21. What does it mean to say that an SCBA unit is a “positive-pressure” SCBA?Answer: b

a. The user must exert a positive pressure on the face piece in order to start the flow of air.b. The regulator will maintain a pressure in the face piece that is slightly higher than normal atmospheric pressure for that alti-

tude.c. The regulator will shut to prevent unnecessary loss of air should the face piece be removed from the face.d. Nothing–“positive pressure” is a misconception many fire fighters have about the way modern SCBAs work.


22. While fighting a fire, you suddenly hear a bell and feel a vibration from your SCBA. What does this mean and what action shouldyou take?

Answer: da. Your SCBA is malfunctioning, and you need to switch to emergency by-pass mode by activating the red-colored emergency by-

pass valve.b. Your SCBA is overheating, and you should have a team member direct the nozzle stream against the cylinder to cool it down.c. You have enough air left for five minutes of work before you will need to start your exit.d. You are low on air, and you must exit the hazardous environment now.

23. At a minimum, how often must an SCBA be inspected?Answer: a

a. Daily or at the start of your shiftb. Weeklyc. Monthlyd. Semi-annually


Student QuizName: ___________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________________________________________________

______ 1. True or False: Federal law specifies the training requirements for fire fighters.a. Trueb. False

______ 2. Your engine company is extinguishing a fire in a single-family dwelling. You see two fire fighters preparing to climb to theroof of the building, which you have previously been advised is weakened due to prolonged exposure to fire. You should:a. notify the incident commander.b. notify the safety officer.c. notify the company officer.d. all of the above.

______ 3. What is the leading cause of fire fighter fatalities?a. Inhalation of toxic smoke and super-heated gasesb. Contact with flamec. Heart attacksd. Being struck by falling objects

______ 4. What is the proper order of concern for the safety of people on the fire ground?a. Yourself, other team members, the general publicb. The general public, yourself, other team membersc. The general public, other team members, yourselfd. Yourself, the general public, other team members

______ 5. The fire service uses the Incident Management System to:a. ensure that orders are communicated and followed.b. ensure a command and control structure is in place for large-scale incidents.c. ensure a command and control structure is in place for all incidents, even small fires.d. ensure that fireground operations meet federal standards for reimbursement of expenses for disaster-scale incidents

such as wildland fires.

______ 6. Freelancing is permissible:a. when your company officer says so.b. when you cannot communicate with your officer for instructions.c. at no time.d. at most times, except when lives are in danger.

______ 7. True or False: The safety officer has the final authority on the fireground.a. Trueb. False

______ 8. Which of the following is a TRUE statement?a. Hand tool manufacturers’ specifications and operating instructions are for the general public and are not applicable to

fire service uses.b. Only certified equipment mechanics should perform any type of maintenance on fire service tools and equipment.c. Fire service tools and equipment are fairly well standardized; therefore, fire fighters do not need to read the

instructions for each individual tool or piece of equipment.d. Fire fighters must know how to troubleshoot and maintain all equipment carried so they can fix it on the fireground if

necessary.

______ 9. You have been suffering from the flu for the last two days. You are due to work the next morning at the fire department.You crew is already short because another fire fighter on your shift has taken vacation. You feel very sick. You should:a. call in sick.b. show up for work and if you are not feeling well by noon, go home.c. take some medicine and work your shift .d. tough it out for the duration of the shift.


______ 10. When is the best time to put on your protective clothing?a. Once you have arrived at the firegroundb. En route to the emergency in the fire apparatus (if you are not driving)c. At the station, before you get into the apparatusd. At the beginning of your shift

______ 11. You are working on a team of three fire fighters inside a warehouse on fire. You are behind the lead fire fighter on thenozzle of a handline attacking the fire. The fire fighter on the nozzle signals that he is low on air. You should:a. take over his position on the nozzle and allow him to exit the warehouse for a fresh cylinder of air.b. signal the fire fighter behind you to go back to the apparatus to get a fresh cylinder of air for the fire fighter on the

nozzle.c. exit as a team of three to get another cylinder of air.d. give a “Mayday” signal on your radio to summon assistance.

______ 12. The purpose of a personnel accountability system is:a. to make sure fire fighters are accountable for the tasks they have been assigned.b. to ensure that fire fighters stay in “buddy teams.”c. to provide accurate record keeping for federal reimbursement of fire fighter wages on disaster-scale incidents, such as

wildland fires.d. to ensure that all assignments, activities, locations, and status of every fire fighter on the scene are known.

______ 13. Which of the following is not a type of personnel accountability system?a. Personal alert safety system (PASS)b. Passport systemc. Accountability tag systemd. Clipboard, pen, and paper

______ 14. When can a fire fighter leave the rehabilitation area?a. When the fire fighter gets a fresh cylinder of airb. When the fire fighter is released by the officer in charge of the rehabilitation areac. When the company officer says that the rest break is overd. When the fire fighter feels fully rested, refreshed, and ready for another work cycle

______ 15. What are the warning signs of heat exhaustion?a. Nausea, vomiting, and restlessnessb. Sweating, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and crampingc. Inability to carry even light hand tools without dropping themd. Both b and c

______ 16. You are on an engine company dispatched to assist the ambulance with the victim of a domestic assault. When you arriveon the scene, a neighbor runs up to you screaming that she thinks someone has been shot in the house next to hers. Theambulance is arriving on the scene with the fire engine, but the police are still a few blocks away. You should:a. look in the windows of the house to see if you can locate a victim.b. use the public address speaker on your fire engine to inquire whether anyone in the house needs medical attention.c. inform the engine company officer so your crew can retreat a few blocks away until the police give the “all-clear”

signal.d. grab the medical kit, oxygen, and automated external defibrillator in case the person who has been shot is in cardiac

arrest.

______ 17. What is a drawback of the structural firefighting protective ensemble?a. It will not provide sufficient protection beyond one hour of interior structural firefighting.b. There are no standards governing the manufacturing of structural firefighting protective ensembles, so there is little

assurance that any given ensemble will provide adequate protection.c. It cannot be used for anything other than structural firefighting.d. The vapor barrier prevents the release of perspiration and body heat, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion.


______ 18. How often should PPE be washed?a. After every useb. Never–doing so will break down the fibers and cause the flame-retardant material to wear out fasterc. Whenever required by the manufacturerd. On a regular basis, to be determined by the individual fire department

______ 19. When can a fire fighter remove his or her SCBA?a. When the air inside the structure is sufficiently clear so as to be able to see without difficultyb. When the air inside the structure no longer stings the fire fighter’s eyesc. When the most senior member of the team removes his or her SCBAd. When the safety officer indicates that the atmosphere is safe to breathe

______ 20. What are the three gases commonly found in house fires?a. Carbon monoxide, hydroflouric acid, and calcium phosgenateb. Carbon monoxide, phosgene, and hydroflouric acidc. Carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and phosgened. Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and hydroflouric acid

______ 21. What does it mean to say that an SCBA unit is a “positive-pressure” SCBA?a. The user must exert a positive pressure on the face piece in order to start the flow of air.b. The regulator will maintain a pressure in the face piece that is slightly higher than normal atmospheric pressure for

that altitude.c. The regulator will shut to prevent unnecessary loss of air should the face piece be removed from the face.d. Nothing–“positive pressure” is a misconception many fire fighters have about the way modern SCBAs work.

______ 22. While fighting a fire, you suddenly hear a bell and feel a vibration from your SCBA. What does this mean and what actionshould you take?a. Your SCBA is malfunctioning, and you need to switch to emergency by-pass mode by activating the red-colored

emergency by-pass valve.b. Your SCBA is overheating, and you should have a team member direct the nozzle stream against the cylinder to cool it

down.c. You have enough air left for five minutes of work before you will need to start your exit.d. You are low on air, and you must exit the hazardous environment now.

______ 23. At a minimum, how often must an SCBA be inspected?a. Daily or at the start of your shiftb. Weeklyc. Monthlyd. Semi-annually

Documents

FireFighters IM ch02 022-077 · Chapter Overview Fire fighting is risky business. The fire fighter’s most important responsibility is to finish the shift or the call in the