Why might SARs not be practical for confined spaces?

The practicality of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) in confined spaces can be significantly challenged by the limitations associated with air supply and hose length. Among those issues, one particularly relevant factor is the limitation of the air supply hose length. When it comes to operating in confined spaces, having a long hose can be an operational hazard because it may become tangled or hinder movement.

Using a standard air supply hose limited to a certain distance—such as 300 feet—can restrict the rescue team's ability to navigate effectively in the restricted space. Since confined spaces can often be tight and difficult to maneuver in, a long hose may not only pose a risk of entanglement but also make it harder to reach a victim or evacuate safely. Additionally, the fixed length of the hose can limit the areas that rescuers can access, potentially putting both the rescuers and the victim at risk if the situation changes rapidly.

Other considerations pertaining to confined space rescues usually involve weight and bulkiness; however, the impact of hose limitations on maneuverability and efficiency makes this particular issue critical in such scenarios.