We donated  a Bauer compressed air cascade system used to refill self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) bottles. These compressors are costly to initially purchase, maintain, and costly with the options shown.  Previously to conduct realistic SCBA training where members utilized air, special plans would be made to allow our bottles to be refilled. Shawnee County Fire District #2—Auburn Fire could bring their SCBA trailer or our members would take empty bottles to Mission Township Fire Department to refill, both of which we greatly appreciate though neither option is convenient for any personnel involved. This required volunteer time, unnecessary fuel expense and downtime in SCBA readiness for a true emergency.

Having this piece of equipment at our disposal will now allow us to conduct more realistic training and maintain an increased state of readiness for our breathing air systems. In addition, this system will be made available to our mutual-aid partners Wabaunsee County Fire District #4, Maple Hill, KS, this donated piece of equipment will be used by many agencies while greatly enhancing operational and training capabilities in the area.

Our personnel range in services from basic firefighting, Hazardous Materials Technicians, Confined Space and Technical Rescue certifications—all of which have unique requirements for breathing air during operations and training. Again, we thank SHFD for their generosity!