The Role of Technology in Firefighting

We live in the time of technology, where it plays some type of role in almost every facet of our lives. Whether it pertains to communication, efficiency, or safety, it’s in nearly, if not every, profession. This is especially the case for firefighting. A profession that has, and still relies heavily on physical strength and strategy, it is now integrated heavily with apps, gear, equipment, and support software that we couldn’t have fathomed 30 years ago.

Which technological advancements have been the most impactful? GPS tracking, real time data sharing, and incident mapping software have allowed command centers to monitor teams in the field and improve coordination, especially during chaotic situations. Departments and crews can track units with these tools, and provide real-time weather and hazard information, even warning of structural risks.

Thermal-imaging cameras are becoming more common-place, giving firefighters the ability to see through smoke and darkness to potential victims or objects, as well as seeing another side to fire behavior, which may help in predicting flashovers and other hazardous events during a call. Not only is this technology used on individuals, it is also implemented using drones. This covers a wider range of firefighting professions such as wildland firefighters, special ops, hazardous materials, and so on.

The advancement of technology also supports firefighters through training and prevention with tools such as virtual reality (VR) simulators, data analytics of communities and high-risk areas, and app integration with the community to attain building information and history.

As technology continues to advance, so too will the tools and methods used by firefighters. While the fireman can never be replaced, is technology nudging out others? Are trainers, dispatchers, and other critical support teams at risk?