The Safety Hood was a type of gas mask invented by Garrett A. Morgan, an African American inventor and entrepreneur, in the early 20th century. Morgan is best known for creating the first version of the modern traffic signal, but his invention of the Safety Hood also had a significant impact on public safety.

Inspired by a mining accident that occurred in 1916, in which many workers were trapped in a tunnel due to toxic fumes, Morgan developed the Safety Hood as a device to protect individuals from harmful gases and smoke. The mask consisted of a hood made from a special chemical-treated fabric that could filter out toxic fumes and provide clean air for the wearer to breathe.

Morgan patented the Safety Hood in 1914 and demonstrated its effectiveness by using it himself to rescue several men trapped in a tunnel filled with smoke. In 1916, during a tunnel explosion in Cleveland, Ohio, Morgan and his brother used the Safety Hood to save workers who were trapped underground.

The invention of the Safety Hood was a significant contribution to workplace safety and public health, especially during a time when industrial accidents and urban fires were common. Garrett A. Morgan's invention helped to save lives and prevent injury from toxic fumes, and his legacy as an inventor and entrepreneur in Black history continues to be celebrated today.