Friday, 31 August 2012

Durable Technology and Firefighting

By Allyson Westcot


Many experts in firefighting embrace technology for what it can do for firefighters But they still may worry about it because they fear firefighters will become too reliant on technology. Items like fireproof suits, thermal imaging technology, durable laptops, better communication devices and personal security devices have made firefighting far more safe than it has ever been before.

Some devices are definitely of benefit to firefighters like suits that are fire-proof and can protect people from flames and intense heat. Better communication can improve each emergency scenario, so technology that permits firefighters to more easily communicate is a clever idea. A rugged laptop and a system that monitors firefighters for mobility is also practical to use.

Before adopting a technology, a station should work out how simple it will be to teach firefighters on the technology and how often that coaching should really be kept up to make sure everybody is aware of the correct uses. Gear becomes obligatory but isn't used properly won't just be a deterrent. It can essentially be life-threatening.

If all the firefighters don't know how to properly use a selected technology, such as a device that gives some sort of reading to help people establish an area is safe, that can be threatening, too. If someone thinks the reading alone is sufficient when actually it's just one factor, bad decisions can be made. So an understanding of the technology and correct coaching must be considered before using anything new.

If firefighters come to rely on a technology and it fails, the end result can be devastating. So not only is it foolish to rely too much on technologyâ€"it should be a tool in a firefighter's armory although not the only toolâ€"it's also necessary to use technology that's as fail safe as possible. Sturdy computers and tablet PCs are built to bear shocks, water, dust, dirt, heat, cold, vibration and use in all kinds of conditions. They're designed specifically to not fail when workers need them most.




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