NIST Fire Research Division engineers use an abandoned New York City brick high-rise as a seven-story fire laboratory to better understand the fastmoving spread of wind-driven flames, smoke and toxic gases through corridors and stairways of burning buildings. Photo Credit: NIST

At an increasing rate, the fire service is learning to put to use existing technologies such as thermal imaging and positive pressure ventilation techniques, and is anticipating the integration of new innovative technologies, such as tactical decision aids, training simulators, and improved protective clothing. For existing technologies, it is critical that performance be measured and evaluated in a scientifically sound manner and that the technology be successfully transferred to the fire service through training programs and fire fighting simulators. For emerging technology, industry needs science-based performance metrics to evaluate and improve their products and develop new technology, and an understanding of the requirements of the fire service.

The objective of this program is to develop standards and testing protocols for existing fire service technologies, as well as support the development of emerging and innovative equipment and technology, and ensure the successful transfer of research into a usable format and then into the hands of the fire service.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

Through this program, fire fighting technology developers, manufacturers, and users will have a proven set of performance metrics, standards, and testing protocols for evaluating existing technology and developing new technology. The results of the program will provide uniform, unbiased, and science-based standards that will encourage improving current fire service equipment and enable the creation of next generation fire service technologies.

The research produced by the Fire Fighting Technology group under the Fire Research Division at NIST is helping to improve fire fighter safety every day through advancements in Fire Service technology. By equipping fire fighters with better tools, better gear, better training, and greater knowledge of the fire phenomenon, we can make fire fighting greater and safer, and do our part to make sure everyone goes home.

For more information, see the full list of Fire Fighting Technology Projects underway at NIST.