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Features

• Offers significant fire “knockdown” and rapid suppression capabilities for enclosed spaces
• Environmentally friendly – No ozone depletion potential – No global warming potential
• Favorably reviewed by EPA for SNAP listing
• Safe for fire fighters and any occupants trapped by fire
• No oxygen depletion – suppresses at very low concentrations by interference with free radicals
• Provides a reliable, cost effective fire protection tool for a wide range of fire scenarios
• Small, compact, and easily portable to point of attack

Applications

The First Responder is a new and innovative tool designed to aid in the suppression of fires and for use as a personal protection device for fire fighters in emergency egress or entrance situations. It is physically and functionally similar to a smoke grenade – with the major difference that it delivers a highly effective aerosol fire suppression agent – Stat-X.

Typical application scenarios include:

Scenario A—Firefighter arrives at the scene of an early stage fire. After assisting in getting people out and before additional resources arrive at the scene, toss Stat-X First Responders into the rooms which are involved with the fire. This will buy time for further rescue and for the firefighters to lay hose.

Scenario B—Firefighters are concerned about potential flashover from a fire down a hall and water isn't yet available. The firefighters toss First Responders ahead as they advance to eliminate many of the contributing factors of a flashover.

Scenario C— A firefighter is trapped or can't get to a victim due to an intense area of fire. Toss a First Responder into the flame area for immediate fire suppression. The First Responder creates a “bridge” of protection for both victim and fire fighter.

Operation/Description

The small size of the First Responder makes it easily portable. In the event of a fire, First Responder units are activated by removing the safety clip and pulling the ring pin. The unit can then be thrown near the fire - where it will actuate following a 5 second time delay. Upon activation, the First Responder produces an exceptionally effective, ultra-fine, potassium based aerosol that provides extremely fast knockdown and rapid suppression of fires. On an agent weight basis, Stat-X aerosol is significantly more effective than other agent alternatives. It does not reduce the oxygen levels. Fire suppression is achieved through interference between the ultra-fine aerosol particulate and the flame's free radicals – terminating propagation of the fire. The agent will hang in suspension after delivery providing ongoing suppression capabilities.

Coverage

Coverage will be dependent on the specific characteristics of the situation encountered – class of fire, level of involvement, areas of potential leakage, etc. Tests have shown significant suppression effects up to an 8 ft high 10ft x 10ft room – around 20 cubic meters. More units would be required for a larger volume or spaces with excessive leakage. The aerosol flows and spreads rapidly throughout the volume – in a manner similar to a gas. However, since the aerosol is buoyant, more may be required in a high ceiling situation. The First Responder is most effective when thrown directly at or near the fire.

General specifications

Model	First Responder 500
Aerosol Mass (kg), (lbs)	0.50	1.10
Ship Wt./Unit Packaging - (kg),(lbs)     Single     Standard 4 Pack	1.22	2.70
	5.00	11.00
Length:      Unit     (with actuator) (mm), (in)	142.9	5.625
	174.6	6.875
Diameter (mm), (in)	80.98	3.188
Delay Timer (meantime in seconds)	5.0
Discharge Time(sec)	20.0

Operation/Storage Parameters

• Operating Temperature -29° C to +96° C (-20° F to +140° F).
• Storage Temperature -54° C to +74° C (-65° F to +165° F).
• Relative Humidity up to 98% at +35° C (+95° F).

Transportation Classification

• Classification Code: 1.4G
• UN Identification #: UN 0431
• Packaging Group: PGII
• Shipping Limitations:
- Ground: None
- Max. weight per unit packaging – Cargo Air 75 kgs (165 lbs)

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Container - The unit housing shall be constructed of metal and incorporate insulating/cooling material. Discharge ports for agent release shall be located around the circumference of the housing. Housing shall accept a M228 initiator and shall be non-pressurized prior to system activation.

Initiator - The initiator shall comply with MIL specification DTL9235210 (modified for output charge) and shall be subject to 100% reliability testing by means of X-Ray.

Safety - Units shall incorporate dual safety devices – a crimped safety pin and safety clip requiring removal prior to pulling the safety pin by means of a ring attachment. The initiator shall incorporate a minimum 4 second delay timer prior to activation.

Aerosol Agent - Aerosol generated shall be potassium based and manufacturer shall provide fifteen (15) minute time weighted average data from an independent United States laboratory demonstrating that the aerosol does not produce (at normal design concentrations) harmful levels of CO, CO2, and NOx based on NIOSH standards. Agent shall have no ozone depletion potential and no global warming potential. Agent shall be approved for commercial sale by the US EPA.

Dimensions - Unit shall contain 500 grams of aerosol forming composition and shall be 5.625 inches tall (6.875 including initiator mechanism) with a diameter of 3.188 inches. Total unit weight shall be < 2.7 lbs. Origin. Units shall be manufactured in the U.S.A.

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MSDS# 003
DATE: 10/06

For information only, call 1-952-935-9745. For emergencies, call CHEMTREC: DOMESTIC NORTH AMERICA 800-424-9300 INTERNATIONAL 703-527-3887 (COLLECT).

1. PRODUCT

Stat-X - First Responder®.

2. COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS

Components – Chemical (Hazardous Components = 1%)	CAS#	COMMENTS:
Potassium Nitrate	7757-79-1	Components are blended and pressed into a highly stable, molded form. Molded composition is contained within a sealed steel housing - no environmental exposure.
DCDA	461-58-5
Organic Resin	9003-35-4
Appearance & Odor:		Beige to white in color. No odor.
Auto-Ignition Temperature:		300°C
Solubility in Water:		Slightly Soluble

3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION

Possible exposure to aerosol suppression agent if generator is activated. May cause temporary, mild irritation of mucous membrane if inhaled.

4. FIRST AID MEASURES

Contact Method:	Procedure:
Inhalation	Remove to fresh air
Eye Contact	Flush with water
Skin Contact	Wash with soap and water.
Ingestion	Not a likely route of exposure.
Seek medical attention for further treatment, observation, and support if necessary.

5.FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

In the event of a fire, evacuate the area and inform emergency services. Ignition of Stat-X produces a fire-suppression aerosol. Water may be used as an additional suppression agent.

6.ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

If these devices are spilled they can be safely recovered by hand and should be inspected for damage prior to repacking. Suspect or damaged articles should be labeled and consigned for correct destruction.

7.HANDLING AND STORAGE

Store in temperate conditions. Avoid shock, electric currents, static discharge, excessive heat and extended periods of storage at temperatures greater than 65 °C.

8. EXPOSURE CONTROL/PERSONAL PROTECTION

Respiratory Protection	Ventilate area completely after discharge. Do not enter area prior to complete venting of enclosure. Use filter mask as necessary during clean-up.
Hand Protection	Wear gloves if handling generators prior to cooling.
Eye Protection	Safety glasses are advisable.
Skin Protection	N/A

9.PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Appearance:

Steel Cylinder up to 175 mm in length

10.STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

These devices are extremely stable below 125°C. They should be protected from fire, sources of electrical power, shock, and high temperatures.

11.TOXOCOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Toxic by-products of combustion are extremely low. Main by-products are listed below with 15-minute TWA values for a maximum 100g/m3 concentration in a hermetically sealed volume.

Gas	15 minute Time Weighted Average in parts per million
NO 2	1.08
NO	0.97
CO	84.20

12.ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION

These devices are sealed and present no ecological hazards. The aerosol produced upon ignition has no global warming potential.

and an ozone depletion potential = 0.

13.DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS

Comply with all local, state, and federal/international regulations.

and an ozone depletion potential = 0.

14.TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Comply with all local, state, and federal/international regulations.

and an ozone depletion potential = 0.

UN Number: 0431	Shipping Limitations:
UN Classification: 1.4G Articles, Pyrotechnic for Technical Purposes	Cargo Air	Max single packaging – 75 kgs.
Packaging Group: II	Passenger Air	None.
Division 1.4 G articles present no significant hazard as packaged for transport.

15.REGULATORY INFORMATION

S15	Keep away from heat
S35	This material and its container must be disposed of in a safe way
S38	In case of insufficient ventilation wear suitable respiratory equipment
S39	Wear eye/face protection

16.OTHER INFORMATION

Comply with manufacturer's installation and maintenance procedures.

Disclaimer:

The information contained herein is accurate to the best knowledge and belief of Fireaway LLC, and is intended to describe the product for health, safety, and environmental requirements only. It is not intended and should not be construed as a warranty. Consult Fireaway LLC for further information.

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WHAT IS THE FIRST RESPONDER?

The First Responder is a new and innovative tool designed to aid in the suppression of fires and for use as a personal protection device for fire fighters in emergency egress or entrance situations. It is physically and functionally similar to a smoke grenade with the major difference that it delivers a highly effective aerosol fire suppression agent - Stat-X .

WHEN WOULD I TYPICALLY USE IT?

Scenario A—Firefighter arrives at the scene of an early stage fire. After assisting in getting people out and before additional resources arrive at the scene, toss Stat-X First Responders into the rooms which are involved with the fire. This will buy time for further rescue and for the firefighters to lay hose.

Scenario B—Firefighters are concerned about potential flashover from a fire down a hall and water isn't yet available. Toss Stat-X First Responders ahead of the firefighters to eliminate many of the contributing factors of a flashover.

Scenario C—A firefighter is trapped or can't get to a victim due to an intense area of fire. Toss a Stat-X First Responder into the flame area for immediate fire suppression.

HOW BIG IS EACH UNIT?

The units are 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs), 8.1 cm in diameter (3-3/16th inches), and 17.75 cm high (7 inches).

CAN SOMETHING THAT SMALL ACTUALLY EXTINGUISH FIRES?

The Stat-X compound is the most effective fire extinguishing agent currently available – many times more effective than conventional agents by mass. The Stat-X First Responder contains the same compound used in our ULC listed fixed fire extinguishing units. However, due to the tremendous variability of conditions in a firefighting situation, the purpose of the First Responder is, first and foremost, for use as an extremely effective tool to suppress and limit the growth of fires until other traditional methods are available to put out the fire - any extinguishment is a bonus.

OVER HOW LARGE AN AREA CAN A UNIT SUPPRESS A FIRE?

This is, of course, subject to the class of materials involved, leakage, and other factors. Tests have shown significant suppression effects up to an 8 ft high 10ft x 10ft room - around 20 cubic meters. More units would be required for a larger volume or spaces with excessive leakage. The aerosol flows and spreads rapidly throughout the volume rapidly - in a manner similar to a gas. However, since the aerosol is buoyant, more is required in a high ceiling situation. The First Responder is most effective when thrown directly at or near the fire.

DOES IT EXPLODE LIKE A GRENADE?

No, the unit remains fully intact and sends out an aerosol stream in a circular discharge pattern around the base of the unit. Discharge time is around 20 seconds.

DOES IT DEPLETE THE OXYGEN IN THE ROOM?

No, there is no oxygen depletion or reduction. The First Responder stops fire by interfering with the chemistry underlying fire - not by changing the atmosphere.

WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE IS TRAPPED IN THE ROOM?

The aerosol will be the least of their problems. While the aerosol may cause minor mucous membrane irritation at high concentrations (over 100g/m3) or if there is long exposure, the combustion products and heat of a fire can be, and often are, deadly. In a real world fire scenario the by-products and composition of the aerosol are insignificant relative to those of a fire. At a 100g/m3 density the gas products of the aerosol are many orders of magnitude less than that allowed for automobile airbag systems. However, the First Responder should not be thrown close to the victim as it emits a hot cloud of aerosol close to the unit.

IS THE UNIT PRESSURIZED?

The unit is NOT pressurized prior to activation. When activated, a controlled burning reaction of the solid aerosol forming compound inside the First Responder converts the solid to an aerosol composed of 30% carrier gases (primarily nitrogen and small amounts of water vapor) and 70% ultra-fine particulate (potassium compounds in the 1-2 micron range). The unit operates at relatively low pressure.

WHAT IS THE COMPOUND MADE OF?

The compound is made of a patented mixture of Potassium Nitrate, Dicyandiamide, and an organic binder. This is the same compound used in the entire line of Stat-X UL Canada Listed products and is in use world-wide. The compound has been approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

I HEAR A SLIGHT RATTLING FROM THE UNIT WHEN SHAKEN, IS THIS NORMAL?

Yes, there is a cooling bed of inside the unit composed of loosely packed spherical cooling material to allow for aerosol flow while at the same time providing a cooling mechanism. This is normal.

HOW LONG IS THE AEROSOL EFFECTIVE FOR?

The aerosol has a long hang time providing extended protection - up to an hour in a truly sealed, confined space with no airflow. However, in real world deployments the aerosol will typically escape through doors, windows, or other openings. But as long as the aerosol cloud is present, it will be continue to provide suppression.

CAN I USE MORE THAN ONE?

Absolutely! Each fire situation is unique and conditions may warrant the use of multiple units. If human exposure is not a concern, there is no downside to the use of additional units.

WHAT IS THE SHELF LIFE?

Stat-X have a shelf life of over 10 years when stored at temperatures of -54°C (-65°F) to +54°C (+130°C).

CAN I GET SOME FOR MY HOME?

No. The Stat-X First Responder unit remains hot after use and sends out a stream of hot gases in the immediate vicinity (2 foot radius) of the unit during discharge. In Stat-X fixed units additional coolant is used to reduce the exit temperature to low levels, but the coolant has been reduced in the First Responder - to reduce weight and facilitate an effective handheld unit. This is for professional use only in the presence of actual fire conditions.

WHAT ABOUT OUTDOOR FIRES?

The aerosol dissipates rapidly outside due to its ultra-fine particle size. Unlike an ammonium phosphate extinguisher there is no coating effect, nor is there a cooling effect like water, so while there may a short term reduction in flame, a conventional extinguisher would be better. The aerosol is most effective when used in a relatively closed space.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT'S EXPOSED TO FLAME OR I'M CARRYING IT IN AN INTENSE FIRE SITUATION?

The compound inside the unit is somewhat insulated and has a very high auto ignition temperature of 300°C (572°F). In full scale bonfire testing it takes several minutes of exposure to intense heat before the First Responder actives and operates normally. In the real world it is highly unlikely that a firefighter could endure, for a sufficient period of time, temperatures high enough to active the unit.

CAN I REINSERT THE PIN IF I'VE HELD THE SPOON DOWN AND DECIDED NOT TO THROW IT?

We would not recommend attempting this.

HOW COME I'VE NEVER HEARD OF THIS BEFORE?

The First Responder is truly a new innovation. It has taken more than 2 years to get from proto-type to a finished product and the first live demo samples are being shipped July 1, 2006 with commercial product shipping projected for September, 2006. There are no similar products.

OK, BUT HOW COME I NEVER HEARD OF FIREAWAY OR Stat-X BEFORE EITHER, OR THIS WHOLE CLASS OF CONDENSED AEROSOLS?

This technology has only been deployed in scale over the past 5 years and Fireaway LLC is the only significant US manufacturer of condensed aerosols. Sales to date have, primarily, been in other parts of the world due the reliance in the US on UL Listing. While ULC (Underwriters Laboratories Canada - a wholly owned subsidiary of UL) has tested and listed our products to UL 2127, Underwriters Laboratories in the US is only now moving forward on condensed aerosol technology following the recently adopted NFPA 2010 standard. Sales in the US are just ramping up. Worldwide, however, there are thousands of installations of condensed aerosol systems. Fireaway has developed the most advanced, tested, and reliable products in this revolutionary new class. The First Responder applies this technology to firefighting in a unique way made possible by the superior efficacy of the Stat-X formulation.

HOW ARE THEY SOLD ?

They are packaged in a kit of 4 in a divided storage box. Each unit is protected by a clear plastic sleeve.