Fire department discusses helmet and SCBA cleaning to reduce toxic exposure

The Mesa City Council held a study session on March 17, 2025, focusing on public safety and health concerns related to fire department equipment. A significant discussion centered on the importance of maintaining clean equipment, particularly self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs) and helmets used by firefighters.

During the meeting, a council member inquired about the storage of SCBAs, specifically whether they were kept in the truck's cab or in side compartments. The fire chief responded that all SCBAs had been removed from the cabs over the past three years, following permission from the council and city management to implement a "clean cab" policy. This policy aims to reduce the exposure of firefighters to harmful gases emitted from equipment.

The chief emphasized the risks associated with dirty equipment, noting that toxic gases can be released when firefighters return to a previously burned building, potentially affecting their health. He highlighted the importance of cleaning helmets and SCBAs to mitigate these risks, reflecting a shift in the culture of firefighting towards prioritizing health and safety over traditional practices.

The discussion underscored the council's commitment to enhancing firefighter safety and the ongoing efforts to improve equipment maintenance protocols. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the importance of these measures for the well-being of the fire department personnel.