SCBA Flashcards
DCFD SCBA Manuel
If a member does not have a properly functioning SCBA the company will be
Place OOS
What has changed in the firefighting profession in recent years?
Changes have occurred in technology, methods of fighting fire, and the firefighter’s approach to the profession.
What is SCBA?
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, an important component of personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters.
What hazards do firefighters face during fire suppression activities?
Firefighters face hazards of oxygen deficient atmospheres, heat, smoke, and toxic gases.
What temperature should firefighters not enter without protective clothing and FULL respiratory protection?
Firefighters should not enter atmospheres with temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is smoke composed of?
Smoke is a collection of airborne particulates and gases emitted during combustion.
What harmful substances can smoke contain?
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Toxic microscopic particulate matter
- Heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, chromium, mercury, lead)
- Carcinogenic chemicals
What is the leading cause of fire deaths in the civilian population?
Inhalation of toxic fire gases.
What percentage of fire casualties succumb to toxic effects of fire gases before being touched by flame?
80 percent.
What are characteristics of carbon monoxide?
A colorless, odorless, flammable gas produced in every fire.
At what concentration is carbon monoxide considered extremely lethal?
3,200 parts per million (ppm) or .32 percent.
What happens at concentrations of 12,800 ppm of carbon monoxide?
Unconsciousness occurs immediately, with death following in one to three minutes.
What is the normal concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?
300 ppm (.03 percent).
What are the symptoms of breathing in 5,000 ppm of carbon dioxide?
Marked increase in respiration, dizziness, sweating, and mental excitement.
What is hydrogen sulfide and its characteristic odor?
A colorless gas with the foul odor of ‘rotten eggs.’
What is the primary effect of sulfur dioxide on the human body?
Irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract.
What type of materials produce hydrogen cyanide when burned?
Nitrogen-containing materials such as wool, nylon, and rubber.
What can exposure to hydrogen cyanide cause?
Gasping respiration, muscle spasms, and increased heart rate.
How is hydrogen chloride produced?
By the combustion of materials containing chlorine, especially polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
What is phosgene and how is it produced?
A colorless gas produced when refrigerants encounter flame.
What are dioxins and how are they formed?
Formed when products containing carbon and chlorine burn, especially plastics and papers.
What is considered an oxygen deficient atmosphere according to OSHA?
An atmosphere with an oxygen concentration of less than 19.5%.
What happens when oxygen concentration drops below 10%?
Nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and ultimately unconsciousness.
What physiological effects occur due to carbon monoxide inhalation?
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces oxygen transport.
