Gas Detector Supplies

Fires don't just generate heat, flames and smoke. The combustion process also results in carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, which are better known as the toxic twins. In considering this factor and related safety concerns, firefighters often assess the scene with a gas detector before formulating a plan of action. A flammable gas detector is also a must for workspaces, households, municipal buildings and other spaces, as they can alert people to an issue that might otherwise go undetected.

Equip your team with the essentials for detecting and responding to dangerous gases. The right gas detection device will identify toxic gases whether as a byproduct of the combustion process or from another combustible hazard like gas-powered stoves, furnaces, generators and dryers. We offer many types of gas monitoring devices, including disposable detectors, CO detectors and portable gas leak detectors. We also have calibration regulators and other equipment to ensure accurate readings.

If you're buying a gas detection device for the first time, we are here to help. Learn more about gas detection for firefighters here so you can choose the right tools to protect against these invisible hazards.

About Gas Detection for Firefighters

Most people typically associate gas detection with identifying a leak. Firefighters check for this threat while additionally surveying the area for other substances involved in the combustion process. These factors determine how safe the scene is, what risks firefighters and building occupants could face inside and the gear needed to respond.

For firefighters, gas detection equipment is often needed to identify the following gases:

• Carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide and carbon dioxide are all generated through the combustion process. Of these, carbon monoxide is an odorless substance, making it impossible to detect without special equipment. Hydrogen cyanide, a toxic gas, results from burning synthetic materials.
• Combustible gases, including methane, propane and hydrogen, are routinely the cause of cooking and house fires and may cause an explosion.
• Benzene may be released into the air if the home or business has a gas stove.
• Hydrogen sulfide is a flammable and potentially explosive gas associated with oil and gas extraction.

Types of Gas Detection Equipment for Firefighters

To identify and react to these concerns, firefighters typically deploy one or more of the following:

• Single-gas detectors, which help identify the presence of carbon monoxide.
• Dual- and multi-gas detectors, which help determine if the toxic twins are present as well as other potentially flammable and combustible gases and vapors.

Gas detection devices can give readings in up to three formats:

• PPM or Parts Per Million - This allows you to measure small concentrations and trace amounts of a gas.
• Percent Volume - This is for larger concentrations to tell you what percentage of the surrounding air the gas currently makes up.
• LEL or Lower Explosive Limit - This determines whether the gas is close to or has reached the minimum concentration where it can explode or ignite.

What About Gas Leak Detectors?

In households and workplaces, a gas leak detector - also called a natural gas detector - monitors the air for specific gaseous substances. If they identify traces of a hazardous gas, such as from a leaking propane tank, the device sounds an alarm.

As fixed or portable devices, gas leak detectors:

• Safeguard your safety when you store or transport gases.
• Allow workers and family members to get to safety.
• Alert those in the area to a substance that could quickly cause a fire or explosion and let them take necessary disaster-prevention steps.
• Help lower insurance costs, as installing a natural gas detector reflects your commitment to your workplace's and community's safety.
• Help mitigate the effects of a gas leak, from lives lost and property damage to extensive repair costs.

Due to these benefits, we advise that you install a natural gas detector in any room where you store or use gas or a gas appliance.

Shop Gas Detectors at Fire Safety USA

Keep your team safe while accurately knowing how to respond at the scene with great value on premium gas detection equipment from Honeywell and FireCraft Safety. Browse gas detectors and calibration equipment now at Fire Safety USA before placing an order online, through our call center or via our direct fax line. Call us toll-free at 877-699-3473 with any questions.