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Courtesy of Scott Safety

Newly Developed Firefighter Mask Contains Built in Thermal Imaging

It’s the first in-mask thermal imaging system available on the market.

| 2 min read

It’s the first in-mask thermal imaging system available on the market.

Scott Safety, a line of safety products by Tyco International, has recently revealed a new firefighting mask with build in thermal imaging. The mask, referred to as Scott Sight, will contain an in-mask thermal intelligence system, making it the first of its kind in the industry, according to a press release from the fire safety and security company.

Since the 1990s, firefighters have been using hand-held thermal imaging cameras to help them navigate through the thick smoke often encountered during fires. As technology advanced, the size of thermal cameras has decreased dramatically, opening up new possibilities for the technology. Scott Safety has capitalized on the smaller space requirements and integrated the technology into their innovative design for a firefighting mask.

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"Making thermal imaging accessible was a first step," stated Kim Henry, director of growth initiatives for Scott Safety and leader of the Firefighter of the Future team.  "One of the key challenges we faced was to create an adjustable, sleek design that wouldn't interfere with the firefighter's personal protection equipment, field of view or scene hazards. Scott Sight addresses those challenges, while creating a platform that will expand to offer additional capabilities in the future. We are proud of the final product and excited to showcase Scott Sight at FDIC."

Scott Safety recently launched their in-mask thermal intelligence system for firefighters at the FDIC booth during an event hosted at the Indianapolis Convention Centre:

 

The thermal imaging mask works similarly to Google Glass. A display screen within the mask is linked to a thermal camera, providing the firefighter with various readings and interfaces across his or her field of view.

"This enhanced capability is the direct result of a need expressed by firefighters to have thermal imaging technology that's more accessible and easier to use," said Jeff Emery, director of global marketing with Tyco's Scott Safety business.

"Tyco has invested heavily in developing innovative solutions for the fire services, reflecting our deep commitment to the firefighter community.  It's personally fulfilling for the Scott Safety team when we can introduce advancements like Scott Sight that will better protect the firefighters and enable them to work more effectively in challenging environments."

The Scott Sight mask will eliminate the need for hand-held thermal devices, hence allowing firefighters to work more safely and effectively when entering dangerous environments with poor visibility.

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