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TO: Mayor Richard J Irvin
FROM: Mark Matkovich Aurora Fire Department- Assistant Chief
DATE: February 26th, 2021
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 Station 10 from SCBAS Inc. of Washington, Illinois, in the amount of $45,030.00.
PURPOSE:
To purchase and install an Eagle Air Talon II self-contained breathing air (SCBA) compressor and fill station at the Aurora Fire Department Station 10.
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 Station 10 is over 25 years old. It was purchased through Foreign Fire Tax in 2011 for $1500.00 as a used unit that was approximately 15 years old. This unit is very unreliable, breaking down frequently and being out of service for days. Also, with this unit being so old it is hard to get parts for it when it does break down.
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 two bottles at once.
- Updated safety features, reducing chances of system failure or an injury to an operator
This item was published in the Aurora Beacon News, DemandStar and the City's website where 20 potential vendors and bid sites viewed the documents. At bid...
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