FIREFIGHTING

In the firefighting application wireless video transmission, or telemetry, has applications when integrated with a thermal image. Some of the recommended applications of TIC are: search & rescue, size-up, fire attack, overhaul and even HAZMAT operations. Since the mid-1980's, when the TIC was first introduced into the market, it has had a tremendous impact on the ability of a firefighter to save lives, including his own. However, since its introduction there have been numerous discussions whether or not the TIC has a place in the firefighter's arsenal of tools. It is claimed that the TIC is "...one of the most spectacular applications of technology introduced into the fire service since the steam engine...¹". The problem with such a hi-tech tool is that it has limitations and training requirements. For example, the TIC detects heat and is not affected by smoke, therefore giving the firefighter a unique advantage of finding a body, and a way out of a smoke-filled environment.

Consider the EV-TX-2000 Series wireless video transmitters integrated with a thermal imager used in a structural fire. This configuration is extensively used to provide the incident commander the ability to evaluate a situation through the "eyes" of the firefighter inside the building. Enhancing the capability with the EYE-View provides the ability for the Chief at a neighboring fire station to also be watching through the Internet, and assessing the situation to possibly providing assistance, especially in a HAZMAT situation.

The DTRAN-900 can be used in conjunction with a thermal imager attached to the bottom of a water nozzle on a ladder truck. The video from the imager can be transmitted to the control area at the bottom of the truck or to a remote location near the truck the water nozzle can be controlled from a portable station.

Since there is no cost-effective system that will always work in every environment, optimization is the key. K&A offers a variety of technology and subsystems that can be integrated to become a viable solution for the application at hand.