TSFRS has upgraded the respiratory protection for our members by receiving and placing in service a shipment of 12 new Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus sets (SCBA) manufactured by Scott. The units were installed on Engine 85 and Rescue Engine 85 riding positions this weekend. Operation is essentially the same as our older equipment and will be the subject of focused training in the coming days.

The SCBA conform to the latest edition of NFPA 1981, Standard on Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. They feature lightweight 4500 psi 30-minute rated cylinders which replace the older, heavier 45-minute units. This will limit the fatigue factor to which our personnel were exposed.

Additional features include:
• Integrated Drag Rescue Loop assist integrated onto the right shoulder strap assembly
• Universal Emergency Breathing Safety System, UEBSS
• Easy operation Snap-Change Cylinder Connection
• New integrated audible Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) alarm
• Revised Apparatus Mount – Airpack sits higher

The new equipment costs approximately $10,000 per unit and was paid for by a FEMA grant hosted by the West Reading Fire Department, which incorporated TSFRS, the Central Berks Fire Co. of Centerport and the Leesport Fire Co. The older units have been sold back to the vendor who will recondition them and make them available for resale to other organizations who may not have the financial means to afford the newest equipment.