What must firefighters check for on SCBA cylinders before filling them?

Before filling Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) cylinders, it is essential for firefighters to check the current hydrostatic test date. The hydrostatic test is a critical safety measure that ensures the integrity and safety of the cylinder. SCBA cylinders are subjected to high pressures, and over time, materials can degrade, potentially leading to failures during use.

The hydrostatic test is performed to verify the cylinder's strength and ensure it can safely hold the compressed air for firefighting operations. Firefighters must ensure that the cylinder has passed this test within the designated time frame, which is typically every five years for many types of cylinders. If the hydrostatic test date is not current, the cylinder may not be safe to fill or use, posing a significant risk to the firefighter's safety.

This practice of checking the hydrostatic test date is part of standard safety procedures and helps maintain the reliability of vital life-support equipment used in hazardous environments.