Caba Crew
CABA (Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus) is a form of respiratory protection that supplies clean, breathable air from a cylinder to the wearer in dangerous atmospheres. CABA is used by RFS members in toxic atmospheres, oxygen-deficient places, elevated temperatures and smoky environments. These include structural and vehicle fires, often working alongside agencies such as Fire and Rescue NSW and the SES.
Only brigades with specialised training are equipped with CABA to manage these complex incidents, and Glenorie Rural Fire Brigade is one of them. CABA-qualified volunteers receive specialised training to support brigade operations. Regular training is required to maintain this certification and ensure members remain fit and competent.
A BAO (Breathing Apparatus Operator) is a trained member of the RFS who has completed the specific training program to safely use CABA equipment externally at an incident. Glenorie Rural Fire Brigade currently has a solid team of thirteen qualified CABA operators and, on average, attends incidents once a month.
A SFF (Structural Fire Fighter) is the next level up from a BAO, and these firefighters can use the CABA to internally battle structure fires. This type of firefighting increases the risk that the firefighter faces. Glenorie Rural Fire Brigade currently has eight members qualified at the SFF level.
Incidents requiring CABA can go from minor to complex cases where firefighters rely on their training and the trust and support of their team. CABA operators face risks, including roadside/vehicle access hazards, respiratory hazards, structural collapse, heat stress, dehydration, and physical strain from the heavy weight of the equipment.
SFF is one of the most intensive, high-risk qualifications that you can attain as a volunteer firefighter, and we would like to say a massive thank you to all our BAO and SFF team at Glenorie Rural Fire Brigade. Your sense of camaraderie is remarkable; your skill set is top-notch, and your willingness, eagerness, and commitment to showing up to call-outs where CABA is required are commendable. Because of you, the local community is a safer place, and we thank you for your service.
Would You like to Become a NSW RFS Volunteer?
If you want to give back to your community and are keen to be a part of something meaningful, find out how to join Glenorie RFB by contacting us via our Facebook page, visiting the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or simply coming in for a chat at the station on Monday nights from 7:30pm or Saturday afternoons from 2:00 pm. The station is at 2654 Old Northern Road Glenorie NSW 2157
