MIRA’s New Fire Escape Kit
When MIRA reached out to us regarding their new “Fire Escape Kit”, and with our background, we had to jump on this review and see what they had going on here.
Having been a California Firefighter/Paramedic, I have seen first hand the devastation of a wild fire and how rapid the situation can change.
Many folks today are ditching the city life for a more relaxed rural lifestyle. We live off grid, on top of a mountain and recently had a forest fire near by. To get a volunteer fire departments to our location takes 30 minutes on a good day, depending on weather.
Anyone who may face a long escape route in the event of a fire, this kit could be a life saver.
So what comes in the Fire Escape Kit?
This kit consists of MIRA’s flagship CM-6M full ace respirator, a mask-compatible canteen, drop-leg carrying case, and two VK-530 smoke filters. This is one of the few filters on the market that protect the user from carbon monoxide, which is a killer!
When we talk about a “full-face” respirator, think of it as what you see on firefighters known as an SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus), but in this case, with the face mask they have developed, you are breathing filtered air. The full-face mask provides a wide eighty-degree field of view and comes in only one size, but with the adjustable straps, it should fit most adults. For an average sized guy, I found it fit extremely well.
The filter is a standard 40mm NATO thread and can be attached to either the right or left side of the mask. The dual ports offer the opportunity to run two filters at once for greater airflow or to increase the time between filter changes.
CM-6M Communication Diaphragm
One of the most important things for firefighters when in a structure fire is the ability to communicate effectively. CM-6M has a speech diaphragm which seriously improves the quality of speech through the mask. In a high stress, high anxiety situation, clear communication is critical and very pleased they added this feature.
The MIRA Canteen
The CM-6M comes with an integrated drinking tube, this awesome feature allows you to drink when you are getting out of the smoke situation and eliminates the need to remove the face mask to drink. Hydration is important and if you have to don this gear, your in a concerning situation. The one thing I would add here is I wished they offered a hydration pack (think backpack carrying water), this would have a larger capacity of water.
Smoke Filters
The two VK-530 smoke filters are special because they convert carbon monoxide into less dangerous carbon dioxide.
With the majority of fire-related deaths coming from smoke inhalation, this is where the filters comes into play. It eliminates the harsh vapors and particles found in smoke, as well as toxic CO.
Alternate Applications
I refurbish old whiskey barrels and in the sanding process I will sometimes wear a mask. The 40mm filter thread is standard for most modern gas masks and allows you the opportunity to purchase a variety of filters for nearly any task.
Carrying Case
The included carrying case I would call a standard case and is well built. Everything fits in the case from the mask with its canteen and a couple of filters. Although it is typically worn drop leg, it can be configured to be worn across the body with a shoulder strap.
Final Thoughts
What price do you put on your safety? While the price tag runs a bit north of $350, I suggest you watch some California wildfire footage on Youtube and see how fast things can change. Sucking down Carbon Monoxide is not fun and can be fatal. Having this kit and the peace of mind knowing you have a life saving option to get you or your loved ones out of the extreme smoke conditions, to me is priceless!
I would add, as mentioned above, when concerned about the price, think of the added options you could use this for, from home projects and more.
Check them out @ www.mirasafety.com
