At what stage must SCBA be donned during a fire?

Donning the SCBA during the incipient stage of a fire is crucial for ensuring safety and effective response. The incipient stage is characterized by the early signs of a fire, typically when it is small and manageable. This is the optimal time for firefighters to intervene, as the fire has not yet grown significantly or spread beyond control.

Wearing the SCBA at this stage allows the firefighter to approach the situation without putting themselves at risk from smoke inhalation or toxic fumes that can be present even in the early phases of combustion. Additionally, early intervention is key to containing the fire and preventing it from escalating to more dangerous stages, such as growth or fully developed, where the risks to the firefighter increase dramatically.

By using the SCBA during the incipient phase, firefighters can effectively and safely use water or other firefighting methods to extinguish or control the fire before it becomes a larger threat. This proactive approach not only enhances personal safety but also increases the likelihood of successful fire suppression.