What should SCBA wearers do to mitigate some limitations of the equipment?

Wearing Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) can impose various limitations on the wearers, primarily related to mobility, endurance, and overall physiological strain. One effective strategy for mitigating these limitations is maintaining good physical condition.

When firefighters are in good shape, they have enhanced stamina and cardiovascular health, which can help them cope better with the demands of wearing SCBA under challenging conditions. A physically fit individual is often more capable of handling the increased physical workload that comes with using SCBA, allowing them to perform tasks more efficiently and with less fatigue. This is particularly important in emergency scenarios where endurance can be critically tested.

Additionally, good physical fitness can support quicker recovery from the exertion associated while wearing the SCBA, reducing the overall impact on the body when operating in environments that may also be stressful or hazardous. By focusing on physical conditioning, firefighters can ensure they are better prepared to handle the equipment effectively while still performing their duties safely.