We are living in an age where technology is constantly evolving, resulting in the latest advancements in engineering, research, communications, and education. This is certainly affecting the way firefighters fight fires. There is no doubt that advances in technology have improved our equipment, turnout gear, fire apparatus, and overall knowledge of firefighting. We are better equipped today to fight fires.
Thermal imaging cameras (TICs) are perhaps one of the most high-tech tools we have in our arsenal for fighting fires, which is why specialized response groups or technical rescue forces use the TIC when responding to emergencies that involve water, confined spaces, trenches, vehicle extrication, tornadoes, floods, and search rescues. Recently, we have seen mudslides, forest fires, and flooding occurring across the United States that have resulted in lives being lost. The fire service is one of the first responders on the scene when these disasters occur. Our willingness to embrace new technologies and stay at the forefront of advances in technology are why our brave firefighters are well prepared to face these disasters when they occur.
When dealing with specialized rescue situations such as natural disasters, firefighters can use TICs very effectively for a range of operations. Technical rescue forces often own a TIC or have access to one and understand the TIC’s powerful technology. There are TICs with technology exclusively for specialized rescues, such as building collapses or long-range surveillance. Some crews use TICs mounted on helicopters for search and rescue. These specialized TICs are well-suited for specific operations but not practical for fire departments that respond to structural fires. For the most part, TICs for the fire service are relatively simple in comparison. Since first responders are typically first on the scene, they most likely will be using a TIC designed for firefighting.
The TICs used for the fire service are typically fixed-focus and relatively short-range tools, designed mostly for interior fire attack; however, these TICs can detect a human body form several hundred feet away or more, depending on the temperature of the surrounding objects and overall environmental conditions. To search a wide area, such as an industrial facility or an expansive open area, a TIC can be invaluable for conducting the search, performing risk assessments, or assisting in prioritizing resources.
When conducting a confined space rescue scenario in a cellar or basement following a natural disaster such as a mudslide, flood, or tornado, the firefighting TIC is a valuable tool. It’s also an extremely beneficial tool to allow crews to easily see their surroundings and navigate in the dark, particularly when scene lighting is unavailable. In these situations, the firefighting TIC can help locate trapped or injured victims and bring them to safety. A TIC can also be used during confined space rescue to delay a structure collapse or secure the scene. When conducting victim searches, firefighters should look for out-of-place heat signatures and limbs and extremities protruding from debris, under tables, or around objects. Firefighting TICs make the search and rescue process faster and more effective, revealing critical det