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LCC-LFB - Self-contained smoke helmets (BA sets)
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LCC-LFB - Self-contained smoke helmets (BA sets)
Self-contained smoke helmets (BA sets) were introduced for use in an atmosphere dense with smoke and dangerous fumes. A special motor appliance fitted for smoke helmet work was based at Southwark HQ fire station. The appliance was also fitted with a dynamo and portable searchlights, oxygen-reviving apparatus and electric fans. (The first emergency tender.)
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Media ID 7642237
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans
Apparatus Appliance Bizarre Breathing Contained Dynamo Electric Emergency Experimental Fans Fitted Helmets Hose Mask Masks Oxygen Portable Reviving Searchlights Sets Southwark Strange Tender Unusual Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken in the early 1930s, showcases a groundbreaking innovation in firefighting equipment used by the London Fire Brigade (LFB). Self-contained smoke helmets, also known as BA sets, were introduced to enable firefighters to enter and operate effectively in environments filled with dense smoke and harmful fumes. The unusual apparatus in the image is a special motor appliance specifically designed for smoke helmet work, which was stationed at Southwark Headquarters (HQ). The appliance was equipped with various essential tools, including a dynamo for generating electricity, portable searchlights to illuminate the smoke-filled areas, oxygen-reviving apparatus to replenish the firefighters' oxygen supply, and electric fans to help clear the smoke. This was the first emergency tender of its kind. The firefighters in the photograph can be seen wearing the bulky, self-contained smoke helmets, which were a far cry from the traditional leather helmets and masks used in earlier times. These new helmets allowed the firefighters to breathe independently, making their work in hazardous conditions much safer and more efficient. The design of the helmets and the motor appliance was an experimental and bizarre departure from the standard firefighting equipment of the era. This photograph is a testament to the London Fire Brigade's commitment to innovation and the constant pursuit of ways to improve firefighting techniques and equipment to protect the public and firefighters alike. The 1920s and 1930s were a period of significant change and advancement in the fire service, and this image encapsulates the spirit of that era.
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