Memorandum 14-121 Thermal Imaging Camera for Fire Department

Memorandum 14-121

TO:                       Walt Wrede, City Manager

FROM:                Robert Painter, Fire Chief

DATE:                  August 1, 2014

SUBJECT:         Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)

Our oldest of two thermal imaging cameras (TICs) has malfunctioned. We returned it to the manufacturer for repair and have been advised that due to its age, replacement parts are no longer available, thus the unit was unrepairable. While we still have one working TIC I believe it is important for us to have two units immediately available in cases of fire, one for each crew making entry into the structure.

Thermal imaging cameras enable crews to “see” in the dark, smoky environment always present at a fire, especially at night. Crews, equipped with TICs are more quickly able to locate victims trapped by fire, and allow rescue crews to more quickly exit the hazard zone by being able to see the most advantageous egress route. TICs operate by using the infrared spectrum of light and projecting that image on the hand held camera. The camera differentiates between items that reflect and absorb heat at different rates. In addition to being a tool for search and rescue, in any low light condition (TICs are routinely used for searches at night to locate victims outdoors), TICs can be used to determine fluid levels in exterior fuel tanks such as propane and fuel oil, and hidden fire in walls, floors, and ceilings, thus reducing the amount and extent of damage necessary to locate and extinguish residual “hot spots”.

The manufacturer of the TIC, Bullard, is currently offering a trade in credit for the old camera, even though it isn’t working, of $500. I would request that $10,000 be budgeted from Fire Department Reserves for the replacement to enable us to also purchase an additional spare battery pack for the unit.

RECOMMENDATION: Introduce and approve Ordinance 14-40.