Care and feeding of SCBA harnesses.

[Dubya]

We have a couple of older SCBA harnesses with straps that are getting a little stiff, so they're hard to tighten and loosen.

Is there anything I can do to make the straps more flexible again, so these SCBA are easier to don?

[Roadwarrior]

First, look at the manufacturers direction. I suspect though, that you won't have them as they are older units.

If you can, remove them and wash them with a gentle detergent and warm water. Hang to dry.

[fire16]

If removable, would you be able to replace them with new? Cheaper than a whole assembly? If they are getting stiff after being wet, ( and being old?) are they maybe prone to breakage and not up to carrying the load any more? How to soften them, no real idea. Our new Scotts have very stiff harnesses compared to our old retired Survivaires.

[Dubya]

They don't seem to be in any danger of breakage, and they don't look particularly dirty - they're just hard to adjust cause they don't flex enough to slip easily through the buckles. They're ISI units, less than ten years old - but they don't have a lot of hours on them for various reasons.

I'll look at cleaning them and I'll check over the buckles - maybe the problem is more them than the straps.

[BigDawg99]

we are having the same problem with 2 of our MSA packs...the shoulder straps are hard as heck to pull tight and loosen..if you find out what to do to them..lemme know man

[Nagrom]

Caring for the SCBA is not hard, but it can be time consuming.
SCBAs eat forage like grass in the wild, although, in captivity, they can consist contently on dog food. Citrus fruits and the occasional melon are nice treats for your SCBA.
Caring for SCBAs will depend on how docile they are. Most in captivity are great companions, and should be treated like one of the family. An occasional brushing is usually all that is required for the SCBA to live happily.
Remember, although simple, SCBAs do require a lot of commitment. Don't get one, unless you are willing to take care of it. Wild packs of roaming SCBAs are becoming a problem, and should be prevented. http://www.firehall.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14331
This problem has been brought up here.


Sorry guys. I couldn't figure out what you could have been talking about. "Care and feeding". I couldn't resist. Here are your instructions on the care and feeding of SCBAs.