Helpful Hints for Thermal Imaging, Part 4

These helpful hints consist of different applications or approaches to using thermal imaging as well as tactical techniques.

As with anything that we do in the fire service, proficiency only happens with continuous practice. This month, we will talk about misinterpretation, aerial apparatus safety, life safety equipment, training, and exposure protection.

• Helpful Hints for Thermal Imaging, Part 1
• Helpful Hints for Thermal Imaging, Part 2
• Helpful Hints for Thermal Imaging, Part 3

MISINTERPRETATION

Beware of reflections. Modern-day kitchens are a potential room full of mirrors. Stainless appliances, granite counters, high-gloss wood cabinets, and marble/ceramic floors can all give false impressions. One of the most common rooms for the fire can also be offering the most reflective and possibly misleading images. Note that reflective surfaces can give you false images of the location of the actual fire. Always give yourself a wave if you see yourself or other firefighters to confirm that you are looking at yourself, as you will detect reflections of others. Determine what is real and what is not!

AERIAL APPARATUS SAFETY

A thermal imager (TI) is a valuable tool to identify overhead power wires prior to positioning an aerial apparatus in smoky and nighttime operations. This applies to using any ground extension ladders as well. Use a TI to determine the best placement for the fire apparatus, keeping a safe distance from overhead hydro lines. The distance should adhere to local regulations and safety guidelines. Note that when conducting a 360° size- up, include this observation each time for safety reasons. Regularly check the area with the TI to ensure there are no issues with hydro lines that could pose a risk to crew safety. If too many electrical hazards exist, have the power company cut the power in this area to ensure that any small incidents will not have a shocking outcome.

1 Reflections from a double-door stainless steel fridge. (Photos courtesy of Bullard unless otherwise noted.)

LIFE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Mount the TI in the apparatus where it is in plain sight—not hidden so it gets forgotten. Use the TI like you would any other life safety equipment. Always carry it with you. Note that all TI manufacturers have a vehicle-mounted powerhouse charger that can properly secure and charge a TI during transport and when sitting in the firehouse.

Always follow the TI manufacturer’s installation instructions. A department that only uses its TI in the most catastrophic of circumstances is not receiving maximum benefit from a capable and valuable piece of equipment. Bringing the TI with you off the apparatus is taking the first step!

2 Observation of overhead power lines.

3 A TI located in the rear crew area mounted in the charger. [Photo courtesy of the Shelby (NC) Fire Department.]

4 A fully engulfed structure. Conduct a 360 to determine needed exposure protection. [Photo courtesy of the Cleveland (NC) Volunteer Fire Department.]

TRAINING

Thermal imaging is valuable technology when used properly, but a false sense of security can be achieved as firefighters must be trained not to deviate from standard accountability, entry, search advancement, and extinguishment procedures. Using a TI for training in a fire service context can significantly enhance the skills and safety of firefighters. Note that you should follow NFPA 1408, Standard of Training Fire Service Personnel in the Operation, Care, Use, and Maintenance of Thermal Imagers (2020 ed.). Incorporating TI training into the fire service not only enhances operational efficiency but also dramatically increases firefighter safety during emergencies. Regular training and updates on new technology will ensure that firefighters remain skilled and prepared for any situation they may encounter. Use all traditional safety considerations in conjunction with the use of your TI.

EXPOSURE PROTECTION

When a structure is fully engulfed, always conduct a 360 using a TI to check for exposure protection or to identify what the fire and radiant heat is impinging on from a distance such as other buildings, vehicles, propane tanks, etc. Continuously monitor the conditions around the structure, especially in obscured areas, to identify and address any sudden increases in heat that could indicate fire spread. Note that the probability of any survivors and structural instability should weigh heavily on any firefighters being at risk of any building entry.

Sometimes it is just that little reminder that there are so many applications where a TI is such a useful tool if you think outside the box—not just for firefighting applications.

MANFRED KIHN is a 19-year veteran of the fire service, having served as an ambulance officer, emergency services specialist, firefighter, captain, and fire chief. He has been a member of Bullard’s Emergency Responder team since 2005 and is the company’s fire training specialist for thermal imaging technology. He is certified through the Law Enforcement Thermographers’ Association (LETA) as a thermal imaging instructor and is a recipient of the Ontario Medal for Firefighters Bravery. If you have questions about thermal imaging, email him at Manfred_kihn@bullard.com.

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