Thermal Imaging Cameras

Pleasantview FPD Argus TIC Uses of the thermal imaging camera –Search for hidden fire –Search and location of potential victims –Locate overloaded electrical circuits –Provide night vision in blackout situations –Determine levels in pressurized vessels

SOG for Camera Use Currently under development Unit will be located in 1502 –Assignment for use will be made by command –Primary use will be locating potential victims –Secondary uses as described previously

Operation of TIC The ARGUS TIC is one of the easiest cameras to operate available to the fire service. It features hand held operation that can be passed between firefighters for various tasks New improvements in Iris technology will eliminate white outs when extreme heat conditions are experienced

Operation of Camera Remove camera from case Depress on/off switch once, red LED light will go on inside switch The viewer will show a battery strength meter on the left side, battery condition is self explanatory During the 15 second warm up time, the screen will be show a white circle, this is normal

Operation of the Camera After 15 seconds the screen will appear black until it sights something generating heat. –THE WARMER THE OBJECT, THE WHITER IT WILL APPEAR A BLACK AND WHITE IMAGE IS ALL THAT WILL APPEAR. A WHITE IMAGE IS HOTTER THAN THE BLACK OBJECTS.

Identification of Fire and Hotspots The automatic iris in the camera will close in relation to the intensity of the temperature. This is to protect the sensitive electronics. This is normal and will open simply by moving the camera away from the fire. –If searching a room with fire, avoid directing the camera into the fire. You are able to search the immediate area.

Hidden Fires In the event that a fire is hidden behind a wall or door –The image will be seen as a whiter surface against the rest of the background –This could indicate a fire is inside or behind the barrier You may use this operation in the overhaul stage of operations

Searching for Victims ARGUS is a tool used by firefighters to aid in search and rescue Complete primary and secondary search and rescue must still be completed –A firefighter/officer may use the camera in quick searches of obvious places without entering hazardous areas –Neck strap must be used to protect the camera

General Information Unit uses 8 AA batteries –Average continuos life with batteries is about minutes Lens can be cleaned by wiping with a glove or cloth Unit should be stored with batteries out, place them into camera before use Unit should be operated for 10 minutes per month