FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lawrenceville, GA/EWORLDWIRE/July 23, 2002 --- International Safety Instruments, Inc. (ISI), a company known by firefighters for its state-of-the-art technology in respiratory protection, has introduced a new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) featuring exclusive digital technology that has been adopted by NFPA as the new standard for the industry.

The Viking Digital's most innovative feature is its digital In-Mask Light Display (IMLD), a patented design that enables the wearer to monitor cylinder pressure, end-of-service alarm, radio status, battery status and PASS pre-alarm. A five-light display - two green, one red and two yellow - gives the firefighter a continuous readout of this vital information.

This digital light display, developed exclusively by ISI, has proven so effective that it was recently adopted by NFPA as a standard requirement for the industry. The device was tested and designed in consultation with firefighters nationwide, including Chief Ron Butler of the Savannah (GA) Fire Department, who described it as "leading edge and a good idea."

"When I tested the mask with the display," Butler said, "I found it to be comforting, knowing exactly what my air cylinder status was without having to take my eyes off the blaze."

The Viking Digital relays information to the in-mask readout from a state-of-the-art control console that displays pressure rating, hours of use and program information for maintenance personnel. The console also houses a voice amplification system, an optional PASS alarm and radio interface.

According to Ernie Younkins, SCBA Product Manager for ISI, "This compact design does away with cumbersome external wires and accessories that impair a firefighter's mobility. We have also added an innovative AirSwitch® Regulator, allowing the wearer to switch instantly between cylinder air and ambient air even while wearing gloves."

The new Viking Digital, a step up from ISI's highly successful Viking and Magnum product lines, also features a lower profile and less harness clutter than other devices on the market.

In addition, the new SCBA incorporates a lightweight, ergonomically designed backframe. The first-stage regulator is protected inside the backframe and has only two moving parts. A single-piece mask/regulator design eliminates the need for separate facemask/regulator maintenance and is completely submersible for easier cleaning and sanitizing.

The Viking Digital is the only SCBA to offer a standard Voice Amplification System. Other options include: Integrated PASS Alarm, Radio Interface, KEVLAR Net Head Harness, Tether Style Buddy Breather System, Airline Attachment, Nosecup-Mounted Spectacle Kit and Cylinder Durations from 30 to 60 Minutes.

ISI is a manufacturer of quality respiratory protection equipment and thermal imaging systems for firefighting, law enforcement and industrial users. ISI provides product training for firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, HazMat specialists and other safety service professionals. The company also provides service and repair for all of its products. More information on ISI and its products is available at www.intsafety.com.

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CONTACT:
Ernie Younkins
SCBA Product Manager
International Safety Instruments, Inc. (ISI)

PHONE: 770.962.2552
URL: http://www.intsafety.com

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Revolutionary 5 light in-mask display built into the nosepiece saves vital seconds
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