Empowering Firefighters: DHS and Qwake Technologies Partner to Revolutionize Fire Safety with C-THRU Device
Firefighters across the country will have access to a new, innovative fire safety tool thanks to a partnership between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Qwake Technologies. The C-THRU device, a helmet-mounted indoor visualization and navigation device, will allow first responders to see through dark smoke and enhance their situational awareness during firefighting operations.
The funding for this project comes from the DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), which has awarded $4.7 million to support the production of 400 C-THRU devices for testing in real-life situations in various environments and scenarios. S&T has emphasized the importance of improved equipment and technology for first responders in saving lives and ensuring their safety, highlighting the collaborative efforts between S&T and industry partners to address challenges faced by firefighters.
Fire departments interested in testing the new technology must submit their applications by July 31, 2024. The data collected from the testing will be used to refine and optimize the product for real-world use before its commercial release. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and effectiveness of firefighters by providing them with cutting-edge technology for improved performance in firefighting situations.
The C-THRU device will be distributed to 80 fire departments across all FEMA regions, covering a variety of sizes, missions, and operating environments. Participating fire departments will have the opportunity to define their own operational use and training standards for the equipment, ensuring that it meets their specific needs. With this new tool in hand, first responders can navigate through smoke with greater confidence, allowing them to reach people more quickly and safely than ever before.
