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TO: Mayor Richard J. Irvin
FROM: David McCabe, Aurora Fire Department - Assistant Chief
DATE: September 18, 2018
SUBJECT:
A resolution approving the purchase and installation of an Eagle Air Talon II self-contained breathing air (SCBA) compressor and fill station at the Aurora Fire Department's (AFD's) central station from SCBAS Inc. of Washington, Illinois, in the amount of $48,553.00.
PURPOSE:
To purchase and install an Eagle Air Talon II self-contained breathing air (SCBA) compressor and fill station at the AFD central station.
BACKGROUND:
One of the most important pieces of equipment firefighters use is their self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The SCBA allows firefighters to work in what would otherwise be deadly environments due to heat, carbon monoxide, and other poisonous gases. Our water rescue team also has air bottles that allow them to work under water for periods of time searching for victims or items. All of these bottles need to be refilled after each use. The compressor and fill station allow us to refill the bottles in a timely fashion to get them ready for the next use.
The current SCBA compressor at central station is over twenty years old. It has become less reliable, including being out of service for days at a time waiting for parts and repair. When it is run for an extended period of time, as is occasionally needed to fill a large number of bottles, it has begun smoking.
DISCUSSION:
A new compressor and fill station at central station will have a number of benefits, including:
- A larger motor, which won't need to work as hard to supply the pressure needed to fill
bottles.
- Ability to fill four bottles at once, instead of the current three
- Updated safety features, reducing chances of system failure or an injury to an operator
The fire department has funds available in account 101-3033-422-61.52. The funds were deposited there from the approved decision package for this purchase.
At bid opening 18-...
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