B Shifter
Fire command and leadership conversations for B Shifters and beyond (all shifts welcome)!
B Shifter
Thermal Imaging Cameras for Size-up (Part 2)
This episode is hosted by Josh Blum, Erik Phillips, John Eadiccio, Grant Light, and John Vance.
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This episode was recorded on June 23, 2025.
Thermal imaging cameras reduce search time for victims by 75%, are 100% successful in helping firefighters exit buildings, and lessen time finding the seat of fire by 60%.
• Use the "Life, Layout, Fire" approach when viewing thermal images - always look for life (potential victims) first at the lower part of the screen
• Too many firefighters use TICs incorrectly by scanning like a video camera instead of methodically analyzing images
• Personal thermal imagers for nozzle firefighters are game-changers - they're now cheaper than cell phones
• "No firefighter has died with a TIC in their hand" - powerful statement about their life-saving potential
• TICs allow firefighters to flow water from a distance, targeting the fire more effectively than traditional methods
• Reading thermal images requires understanding subtle cues like the "dip in the V" pattern at ceiling level
• Being able to see flow paths helps identify fire location, especially when dealing with below-grade fires
• PPE is not a proximity suit - it's designed for only 17.5 seconds in a flash fire when brand new
• Survivable space exists even in fire rooms, but using TICs and flowing water quickly extends victims' chances
Contact us to learn more about thermal imaging training opportunities at the upcoming Blue Card Hazard Zone Conference.