Photos and story by LVFD Firefighter Ron Sims

The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased and placed into service a Bullard Thermal Imaging Camera.  While a regular camera measures light, a thermal imaging camera measures the heat given off by a person's body or by a fire.  The camera will allow firefighters to better see through dark and smoke filled rooms and more quickly locate victims.  Firefighters can also use the camera to detect dangerous situations.  The total cost for the unit including a protective case was $10,000.00.  A boot drive held earlier this year along donations received from the community helped the LVFD pay for this life saving piece of equipment.  For more information or to see the camera in person, call the firehouse at (301) 776-3600.

Left:  A person hides in a dimly lit corridor.  Right:  Looking through the thermal imager, a person's silhouette is visible against the left wall.

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