SCBA Confidence Maze - Feb 2006
(click on thumbnails for full-size picture and description)

         In February 2006, Airport Firefighters conducted their annual SCBA Confidence training at the Monroe County Public Safety Training Facility. This training is designed to build a firefighter's confidence in his ability to manuever through restricted spaces in order to move through a dangerous area. Some of the techniques used include a 'partial escape' in which the firefighter removes the air pack strap from one shoulder, and rotates the pack around in order to slide through a tight spot, such as between the studs in a wall. Another technique that could be used in this situation is the 'swim' maneuver, where the firefighter centers himself on the studs and swings his arms backwards one at a time (similar to the backstroke) until his upper body slides through. With this technique, the pack is not removed at all.
         For even tighter spots, a 'full escape' may be needed. To do this, the firefighter completely removes the pack from his back while maintaining contact with the straps in order to keep the air mask on his face. When this is done, it is very important that contact with the backpiece is maintained at all times in order to maintain the facepiece seal, and so the pack can be restrapped to the firefighters back. The SCBA course can also be used for Search and Rescue training. 'Bodies' can be placed throughout the maze simulating a downed firefighter or confined space rescue.



Back to Training