201452 EEBD not primed? It's not ready to save your life

Edited from USCG official safety alert 06-14

During recent inspections, it has been discovered that numerous SABRE Emergency Escape Breath Devices (EEBD) / Emergency Life Support Apparatus (ELSA) were in an unprepared status. The ‘Quick Fire’ functionality that puts the EEBD into operation when the bag is opened up and hood is worn was not in its ‘primed’ state. This can have fatal consequences when time is of the essence to escape a hazardous atmosphere.

When purchased or returned from servicing, this equipment will have a small removable label viewable through a window on the bag that states ‘QUICK-FIRE NOT PRIMED ANTI-TAMPER DEVICE AND FITTING INSTRUCTIONS INSIDE’. This means the unit is not ready. Once received on the vessel, the EEBD should be prepared for use by opening the bottom left corner flap, attaching the ‘Quick Fire’ cord and removing the label.

Editor’s note: Although this safety alert concerns SABRE brand, you should check all EEBDs carefully for their proper functionality.