What is an example of a nonemergency exit indicator for firefighters?

A nonemergency exit indicator for firefighters is something that helps them gauge their environment or situation without indicating an immediate crisis. A SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) failure indeed falls into this category. While a SCBA failure is a critical issue that firefighters must address promptly, it is not an indicator of an emergency exit situation; rather, it signifies a potential operational hazard the firefighter needs to resolve.

In contrast, smoke detection alarms, fire suppression system activation, and emergency evacuation alarms directly signal emergencies that require immediate attention and actions, such as evacuating personnel or taking defensive measures against a fire. These systems are designed to alert responders to an active threat, thus categorizing them as emergency exit indicators. The SCBA failure, while serious, does not indicate an immediate requirement to exit an emergency situation; it simply highlights a malfunctioning piece of essential equipment that affects a firefighter's ability to operate safely.