The city of Turlock has approved a pilot project that would equip firefighters with helmet-mounted augmented reality technology during a City Council meeting earlier this week.
The new equipment will be provided through what the city is calling a “pioneer level program” with Qwake Technologies, which will be paid for with nearly $300,000 in American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding.
According to a presentation from Fire Department and company officials, the technology provides real-time visual augmentation, edge-powered thermal imaging, and enhanced situational awareness that will allow firefighters to more easily identify victims in low- and no-visibility situations.
Turlock was one of 10 U.S. cities named in a congressional recommendation to pilot the new technology.
Qwake CEO and co-founder Sam Cossman told the council that the technology allows firefighters new situational awareness through the use of in-helmet heads up displays that are also visible to commanders outside of a structure fire.
“The Pioneer Program was really born out of a $10 million contract that was secured with the Department of Homeland Security,” Cossman said. “Homeland Security recognized that there are some significant capability gaps across the United States emergency response community, namely not being able to see, not being able to communicate effectively, not being able to navigate.”
As part of the three-year contract, fire officials say Qwake will be coming in to refresh existing equipment following the completion of the beta test. Council members approved the agreement with Qwake in a 3-1 vote.
Turlock Council OKs Advanced Fire Department 'Pioneer' Project
As part of a newly approved agreement with Qwake Technologies, the Turlock Fire Department will be one of 10 U.S. cities to pilot helmet-mounted technology, aiming to improve rescue operations.
