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Iconic Montreal Olympic Tower is Retrofitted to Become Canada's First Building Equipped with FARS


Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems (FARS) are air standpipe systems that provide a continuous supply of breathable air to firefighters.

When it opened in 1987, the Montreal Tower was heralded as an architectural and engineering landmark, soaring 547 feet above the city’s Olympic Stadium, and providing spectacular views of the entire Greater Montreal region.
More recently, the Montreal Tower also became a landmark of safety. Building contractor Groupe SCV, Inc. of Montreal retrofitted the tower with FARS —making it the first building in Canada to be equipped with this life-saving technology.
The FARS retrofit was part of a three-year, $200 million renovation of the structure. The project was completed in 2019.
According to Jean-Francois Arbour, president of the mechanical and electrical contractor Groupe SCV, the project was a truly unique experience. “The Montreal Tower is the tallest inclined tower in the world, with a 45-degree angle,” said Arbour. “By comparison, the Leaning Tower of Pisa only tilts five degrees. So, you’ve got some very interesting angles and spaces. That said, the FARS fits extremely well into an existing structure—even one as distinct as this.”
Vive la sécurité!
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Who We Are

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Our mission

The Firefighter Air Coalition is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization dedicated to advancing firefighter safety through education and training on air management best practices.

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Our Vision

Our vision is for all firefighters to have the tools and expertise they need to operate safely and effectively, protecting themselves and the communities they serve.

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Advocating for Innovations in Air Management Technology Integration

We follow the development of air management technologies and advocate for integration into firefighting best practices. These technologies include portable breathing air, gas detection, fireground and training tools, PPE and more.

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It's a simple equation

Smoke is a killer. Understanding the enemy is crucial to reduce the chance of illness, disease and death.

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Principles of science and engineering

Fire science studies the causes and effects of fire,  fire management, fire behavior, and firefighter health and safety. We will bring you the latest science and research related to firefighter health and safety.

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Who We Serve

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Fire Service

The Firefighter Air Coalition (FAC) focuses on the need for smart, responsible air management. It’s our passion and our privilege to advance firefighter safety through continued education and training programs and the advancement of important life-saving air supply technology.

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Code Compliance Professionals

The Firefighter Air Coalition advocates for codes requiring proven technologies that improve air management in the fire service and help reduce cancer risk. We support the efforts of code compliance professionals in their code review, adoption, and implementation process.

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Municipal & Legislative Representatives

Codes requiring Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems (FARS) are a growing trend nationwide as cities look to keeping pace with infrastructure development, fire department manpower, reduce risk, and maintain the highest level of public safety.

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FARS Installation & Maintenance Contractors

A Firefighter Air Replenishment System (FARS) is a building installed standpipe system and distribution systems that delivers breathing air to firefighters inside large structures.

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Building Owners

As with most building-installed fire safety systems, the cost of FARS and the on-going testing, certification and maintenance of the system is borne by the builder and the building owner.

Dr. Rodger ReiswigBill DicksonDavid RhodesRon Siarnicki

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The Firefighter Air Coalition's training in Meridian, Idaho, was an outstanding educational experience that provided invaluable insights into Air Management, Technology, Fire Smoke &Firefighter Cancer, and Fire Science & Research. It was a clear demonstration of the coalition's commitment to the safety and effectiveness of firefighters, ensuring they are prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow with confidence and skill. Bottom line, this training has made firefighters safer and more resilient.

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