When donning an SCBA facepiece, which straps should firefighters tighten first?

When donning a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) facepiece, tightening the lower straps first is crucial for ensuring a proper seal and comfort. The lower straps, also known as the jaw or chin straps, help to secure the facepiece against the face, ensuring that it sits snugly.

By focusing on the lower straps first, firefighters create an initial level of stability, which allows for better adjustment of the facepiece to the contours of the face. This is essential because a proper fit is key to preventing contaminants from entering the facepiece. After the lower straps are tightened, the upper and side straps can be adjusted for additional comfort and to ensure that the facepiece remains securely in place during active firefighting operations. This method of adjustment helps maintain the integrity of the seal around the entire face to provide effective respiratory protection.

Using this approach promotes both safety and functionality, allowing firefighters to operate efficiently while wearing the SCBA.