Brewster Firefighters Conduct Thermal Imaging Camera Training

During the weekend of June 12, 13, and 14 the Brewster Fire Department received both classroom and hands-on training on the use of their thermal imaging cameras (TIC) at fires and other emergency events. SAFE-IR, a leading international TIC training group comprised of firefighters from New York City’s elite Rescue companies, Atlanta, and other areas across the United States provided the in-depth sessions which were funded through a 2013 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) received by the department. The Friday evening classroom program covered the general use of the cameras including a detailed review of their capabilities, production, maintenance, and use. The Saturday and Sunday practical evolutions which were held at the Barnstable County Fire Academy placed the firefighters in real life scenarios requiring the use of the cameras during interior fire operations such as searching for victims, advancing hoselines, checking for fire extension, reading interior heat levels, and documenting fire movement. The members of the Brewster Fire Department would like to thank the Barnstable County Fire Academy for use of the facility and FDNY Rescue 3 Firefighter and co-owner of SAFE-IR Robert Athanas for his expert instruction.