Members Completed SCBA Search Training

Johnson, VT — September 3 — Johnson Fire Department personnel carried out a training exercise on Thursday evening that focused on the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in a smoky environment.

The session emphasized conducting patient searches in conditions of reduced visibility and techniques for extracting patients from a building.

Firefighters participated in the drill while wearing SCBA and in a smoky setting, offering them practice in operating under limited visibility and managing equipment during search and rescue operations.

The department's training aimed to support interior firefighters, who were trained in the use of SCBA and in performing firefighting and rescue responsibilities, according to the department.

Vermont’s Division of Fire Safety includes SCBA confidence drills and hands-on operation as part of its firefighter training programs.

Regular practice was highlighted as essential for maintaining the skills needed during interior firefighting operations.

OSHA guidelines state that firefighters working in interior structural fires must use SCBA, and training is required to cover proper respirator use and emergency protocols.

The Johnson drill offered firefighters hands-on experience with search techniques and patient removal methods.