As you can guess from the name, multi gas detectors are portable devices used to detect multiple gasses at the same time. It is the last line of defense to alert operators of dangerous leakage of gas.
Professionals in the fire fighting department are well-aware of the gas-related risks involved in their job. It is common for them to encounter toxic fumes that can be present at any fire stage. They won’t even know whether the air in the cold zone is safe or not unless they use a multi-gas detector. This equipment helps firefighters to mitigate these challenges posed by potentially harmful gasses.
Here are some of the major reasons why firefighters should use a multi-gas detector as essential gear.
Ideal for Detecting Gasses
Fire departments respond to many calls related to deadly gas leaks on a daily basis. Multi gas detectors help firefighters detect the presence of harmful gasses like carbon monoxide (CO). Moreover, they also help them identify the source of leakage of such gasses. Apart from detecting carbon monoxide, this tool also helps to deal with natural gas leaks or other suspicious odors.
Though calls for carbon monoxide leaks are common for firefighters, sometimes, other lesser-known gas hazards also need to be monitored. For example, hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is also one of the most dangerous gasses.
Previously, HCN was not a major concern after a house fire. However, with the replacement of natural materials with synthetic materials in the construction industry, HCN has become a common threat. When these materials are heated, they produce HCN at greater levels. The multi-gas monitor alerts firefighters when HCN is present in the environment along with other common gas hazards for respiratory protection.
Furthermore, you might already know that professionals need tools like a led Thermo hygrometer for confined spaces to measure the amount of water vapor. Likewise, a multi-gas monitor is also a prerequisite when firefighters enter confined spaces such as storm drains or sewers. It tells them whether the atmosphere of a confined space is safe or not.
Ensures Team Safety
Most fire departments own only one multi-gas detector per rig or just one for the whole department. Though having one monitor per department is better than having no monitor at all, it is better to have a multi-gas detector for each firefighter.
This equipment also provides real-time location and alarm data to a central controller who can easily monitor the scene and get additional help if required. These features will improve the safety of crew members and will make them aware of their surroundings.
If one of the crew members detects the presence of HCN or any other harmful gas, the rest of the crew will get the alarms on their own multi-gas monitors. Thus, it will let them know about their atmospheric conditions and who is in trouble. With this information, they will be able to initiate the rescue operation in the right direction.
Reliable & Durable
Industry-driven gas detectors are made for the harshest environmental conditions. Manufacturers test them in extreme conditions with an IP68 rating to protect them from long-term immersion in water over three-feet deep and complete dust ingress. Moreover, reliable manufacturers and sellers of these devices provide a lifetime warranty. Thus, considering its use and durability, it is a great long-term investment.
Furthermore, this easy-to-use equipment is also easy to maintain. Modern gas monitors are quite simple to care for, and you can even automate maintenance. By doing so, the firefighting crew can use it instantly for gas detection without wasting their time on its maintenance.
Budget-Friendly
When it comes to the cost of a multi-gas detector, it is relatively inexpensive for the amount of life-saving protection it provides. Though they do have an upfront cost, they ensure the safety of every member of the fire department.
Therefore, the price is nothing in exchange for the life of even one firefighter. It also eliminates the labor hassles and costs. Also, it gives firefighters more time to focus on making more safety guidelines.
Takeaway!
Hopefully, after reading this piece of content, you will know why fire departments should have multi-gas detecting tools. Not only do these devices provide live gas readings, but they also give an optional pump module for pre-entry checks. It is specifically useful for confined spaces that are limited in space and can restrict movement. Though buyers can buy a single gas detector, they should opt for a multi-gas detector, especially for fire emergencies.
Apart from a multi-gas monitor, there are other instruments that the fire department should own. One such tool is a led Thermo hygrometer, which plays a big role in firefighting. It is so because the lower the relative humidity, the more vigorously fuels will burn.
