It sounds as if it is time for public fire departments and investigation divisions to consider obtaining yet another "tool."

The Thermal Imaging Camera; this equipment has been around since the 2nd World War. I was part of a study group at Paddington Fire Staion in Central London (UK) in 1971 testing a TIC. It was heavy and clumbersome, but it worked. Today there are a number of even better, more efficient and lighter models out there, grants and creative financing (providing collections, golf outings and donations) can make them attainable for everyone, including the Volunteer departments.

The TIC is particularly useful to check for fire extension in out of the way places and can reduce the amount of overhaul damage. In doing that, the fire investigator benefits too. There is not as much debris all over the place. Isn't that what causes a "renkindle" in the first place?

Obviously in a black hole situation or at a large loss a lot of muscle will be required, but the TIC can be used in conjunction with that work process. It is time well spent.


Howard Myers