ARNOLD, Mo. – For several years, the Rock Community Fire Protection District has used apparatuses incorporating Bluetooth technology to enhance communication.
Firefighters swipe a fob to pair microphones inside their masks with other devices, and the result is a clearer-to-understand transmission, according to the department.
“Self-contained breathing apparatuses are paired together, just like you’d pair your headphones to your phone,” Rock Community Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Greg Heimos said.
Fire scenes can be noisy, Heimos added, including occasions where panicked residents are shouting.
He believes that Bluetooth technology makes it much easier for firefighters to communicate—which is especially important for incident commanders to hear the needs of their firefighters during a response.
“We got to know what they’re yelling for,” Heimos said.
Investigations into firefighter deaths across the country often lead to a determination that communications were a factor.
“Anything we can do to help our communications abilities on scene is something that’s going to keep us all safer,” Capt. Tim Lurkins said.
The approximate cost of a backpack and mask is $12,000. He believes the investment has already paid off by helping firefighters escape hazards after hearing instructions.