Protective Services Students Receive Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Demo

On March 9, 2011, Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) Protective Services students received a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) demonstration by John Major, Safety Equipment Specialist for the Fire Store (www.thefirestore.com). Mr. Major was also a volunteer firefighter for 31 years, and retired in 2008 as chief for a volunteer fire company in Royersford. The Protective Services program acquired a budget through its program review process to purchase 10 new SCBA, which includs a mask, harness, and air cylinder manufactured by MSA. MSA is the global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of sophisticated products that protect people's health and safety.

“Most counties are using the MSA brand SCBA. For these students to get trained on the same equipment that is being used in the field is critical,” said Major. “This SCBA is equipped with monitors that tell you how much oxygen remains in your tank, and a heat excess warning that is activated when you need to exit the building. Safety is a key element of fire fighting and proper use of the right gear is essential.”

According to EASTERN’s Protective Services Instructor, Walter Kenney, the new SCBA is more durable and state of the art compared to the old SCBA that was donated to the school many years ago. The new equipment has a life span of 15 years.

Protective Services is a two-year half-day program that prepares student to enter into a career related to law enforcement, fire science, industrial safety and security and emergency radio dispatch. Students can earn certifications, such as, Firefighter 1and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations, through testing by Bucks Co. Fire Academy with certifications from the International Fire Service Training Association. They also receive CPR, First Aid and AED through testing by the American Red Cross.

Photo 1: John Majors demos new SCBA equipment to Protective Services class

Photo 2 (from left to right): Protective Services students, Kathleen Harbaugh (Upper Moreland High School senior), and Kelly Tascarella (Upper Dublin High School senior) test new equipment.

Photo 3: Class photo