Application of Thermography in Firefighting

Gathering information is one of the most important aspects of evaluating a situation. When it comes to firefighting, there is not a whole lot of time to gather information before having to act. Developments in thermography have allowed firefighters to assess situations more accurately and using up less of the crucial time that is needed to potentially save lives.

What is thermography and how is it applied today in the world of firefighting? Thermography is an extension of infrared imaging science. Thermal imaging cameras are used to detect radiation in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum. These cameras produce images of that radiation that are incredibly useful in evaluating a number of scenarios. With the numerous advancements in infrared thermography, uses of thermal imaging cameras extend from medical use to mechanical inspection.

There are a number of ways that infrared thermography is useful for firefighting. Firefighters are able to use thermal imaging cameras to see through smoke, quickly locate people, and localize the base of a fire. Infrared thermography enables firefighters to see through darkness or obscurity in order to quickly locate and assess a situation allowing them to spend less time gathering information and more time actively engaging a situation. The many challenges of fire control and maintenance are continually being recognized and met with thermal imaging camera technology.

These cameras are portable, compact, and highly durable to withstand severe use in the face of fire. This technology is designed to sense and display heat signatures giving firefighters eyes that can see both in the darkness and in smoke-filled environments. This ability is invaluable in making decisions that save lives and fight natural, building, and crash fires.

Now, all of this sounds good in theory, but how are firefighters supposed to use this technology in the face of danger and in severe scenarios? Thermal imaging cameras are portable and durable allowing them to be used in the line of danger. These cameras are able to be mounted or hand held allowing them to be used in the most dangerous of scenarios. Advances in thermography continually meet and exceed the needs of firefighters in controlling and managing fires.

Thermal imaging cameras allow firefighters to gather crucial information needed to evaluate dangerous scenarios. The portability and durability of these cameras allow them to be used in the most demanding scenarios. The availability and usability of this technology makes it a great addition to any firefighting arsenal.

by Kyle E. Albarado

The author is currently a doctoral student studying memory at the neuropsychological level. Also, a former volunteer firefighter.

References:

“Thermal imaging camera.” Absolute Astronomy.com. http//absoluteastronomy.com/topics/Thermal_imaging_camera (24 June 2009).

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