Thermal Imaging Cameras for Size-Up (Part 1)

This episode is hosted by Josh Blum, John Eadiccio, Grant Light, and John Vance.

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This episode was recorded on June 17, 2025.

Thermal imaging cameras are invaluable tools for decision-making on the fireground, yet many firefighters lack proper training to utilize them effectively beyond basic operation.

• Taking the TIC off the apparatus immediately upon arrival provides critical information during size-up
• Project Mayday data shows 38% of LODDs had thermal imagers left unused on the truck
• Most firefighters have never received formal training on thermal imaging
• Survey mode lowers the temperature threshold where colors appear, making it ideal for exterior size-up
• “Nothing showing” visually doesn’t mean there’s no fire—thermal imaging can reveal hidden threats
• The temperature reading in the center of most TICs is often misleading and should be ignored
• Use a “point, shoot, process” technique rather than using the TIC like a video camera
• Firefighters blend with surroundings in real fires—not white blobs like in firehouse training
• Thermal imaging from the exterior builds confidence by showing fire location before entry
• Understanding flow path using TICs helps predict fire behavior and improves tactical decisions

Join us for the 2025 Blue Card Hazard Zone Conference featuring classes on thermal imaging and the Safety Pre-Conference Train-the-Trainer program. Visit bshifter.com for registration details.