Thermal imaging camera checks for daily readiness
Insight Training has published maintenance guidance for fire departments using thermal imaging cameras, setting out daily checks and handling steps intended to reduce the risk of equipment failure and extend service life.
In a blog article by Andrew Starnes, the company said one of the most common causes of thermal imaging camera malfunction is poor care and maintenance.
The guidance says a designated crew member should inspect each device daily to confirm it is operational and free from visible defects.
That process starts with powering on the camera and checking that it starts fully within 30 seconds.
If start-up takes longer, the unit may need to be returned to the manufacturer for servicing.
The article adds that cameras stored below freezing or above 104°F may take longer to power up.
Battery status should also be checked during the inspection.
Most units display a four-bar battery indicator, with each bar representing at least 30 minutes of operating time.
Newer models may offer up to six hours of battery life, although power use can rise when functions such as flashlights, recording or transmission are active.
Users are advised to remove the battery and inspect charging contacts for dirt or damage.
Where a truck-mounted charger is used, both the charger contacts and camera contacts should be cleaned with an alcohol wipe.
Soap, water and solvents are not recommended for those components.
The lens should also be inspected for scratches or chips that may affect image quality.
A flashlight may be needed during this check because defects can be difficult to spot on lenses with diamond coating.
Operators are then advised to scan the surrounding area for signs of detector problems, including image ghosting, static lines on the screen or black dots that remain visible after scanning.
The guidance says black dots can appear after exposure to intense radiant heat sources such as the sun, arc welders or plasma cutters.
It also advises crews to confirm that application modes, recording functions and the default reset function are all working correctly during the scan test.
A radio frequency interference test is also recommended as part of the daily check.
This involves keying a portable firefighter radio next to the camera to confirm that transmissions do not affect the display.
For devices produced since 2013, the test should show no visual interference.
If the display freezes or shows white static, the unit may have damaged or incorrectly installed electromagnetic interference coatings and should be returned for repair.
Thermal handling and charging practices
Insight Training also sets out storage, cleaning and carrying guidance for thermal imaging cameras used in fire service operations.
Cameras should be returned to a charging dock, secured to self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment or placed in another designated ready position after use.
The article warns against leaving units on hot surfaces or on vehicle dashboards in direct sunlight.
Camera housings should be cleaned with a mild soap solution.
Paint removers, degreasers and solvents should be avoided because they may damage seals designed to protect against water and dust ingress.
The guidance says some departments have used abrasive tools or strong cleaning agents that can damage protective housings and shorten the working life of the device.
Users are also warned not to remove the battery and submerge the camera in water during cleaning because this can void the warranty and permanently damage the unit.
Port covers for PC connections should remain closed to prevent dust or moisture entering the camera.
The article states that fire service thermal imaging cameras provide approximate thermal readings and are not intended for measuring extreme heat sources.
It adds that pointing a device at radiant heat sources such as the sun, plasma cutters or high-powered lasers can damage the detector and void the warranty.
According to the guidance, this can happen when a firefighter removes equipment and leaves the camera facing upwards towards the sun.
The company also recommends securing cameras to gear in a way that keeps them accessible and reduces the chance of damage or entanglement.
Units should not be dragged, used as forcible entry tools or left in active fire conditions.
Retractable cords are described as a potential entanglement risk if they catch on ladders or other equipment.
The article recommends checking attachment hardware regularly and using locking or swivel-lock carabiners to reduce the chance of accidental detachment.
It also describes a strap worn over the firefighter’s coat, similar to a radio strap, as an alternative carrying option.
Some firefighters, the article says, use seatbelt webbing with a large carabiner as an attachment point.
It also warns against attaching retractable straps to the back of SCBA equipment because that arrangement can damage the camera and shorten strap life.
Battery management is presented as another factor in long-term maintenance.
The guidance recommends allowing batteries to charge fully and discharge fully to reduce the effect of incomplete charging cycles on lifespan.
It notes that lithium-ion batteries do not technically develop a memory effect and are rated for a finite number of charge cycles.
Dirty contacts or poor placement in a truck charger can lead to repeated short charging cycles that reduce battery life.
The article also notes that TIC units are designed to meet IP67 ratings for dust and water resistance, with open battery ports or exposed connection covers increasing the risk of damage.
The guidance presents routine inspection, correct storage and careful handling as part of maintaining readiness and protecting thermal imaging equipment over time.