There are a number of activities that must be done periodically in the fire house to ensure that the thermal imager performs at its best, for the longest lifetime possible. These company-level tasks can be divided into daily, weekly and monthly duties, depending on the activity level of the fire company using the TI. Key areas for attention are:

• Daily, ensure that the lens, display cover and operating buttons are cleared of significant debris.
• Daily, ensure that all batteries are properly charged and/or charging.
• Daily, verify that all assigned accessories are present and functioning.
• Daily, inspect the outer shell of the TI to identify any cracks or misalignments that may allow water infiltration.
• Weekly, ensure all exterior screws are properly tightened and that all gaskets appear pliable and intact.
• Weekly or monthly, wipe the lens with a soft, damp cloth to remove latent soot and grime build-up.
• Monthly, exercise the batteries, preferably with a battery conditioner/analyzer or by fully draining and then recharging them. Remember not to start draining the second battery until the first is fully charged for response to an incident.
• Monthly, check all other items and accessories for the TI to ensure proper fit and function. This includes handles, hand straps and carrying straps. Test wireless transmitters, computer connections, image download functions, etc.

As a department develops these check lists and maintenance plans, it should consult with the TI manufacturer for the critical points and time frames. Each TI manufacturer will have a slightly different recommendation. Also, work with the TI supplier to help determine what issues might require taking an imager out of service. For example, a noticeable crack in the outer housing probably will demand placing the TI out of service, while a partially cut hand strap probably will not. Just as with any other tool or piece of equipment, firefighters will have to make intelligent decisions about what type of problem is serious enough to stop using the tool.

For more information on maintaining your thermal imager, visit www.bullard.com/Thermalimager/Training

If you would like to tell us about an incident in which a Bullard Thermal Imager has made a difference in your work, send an e-mail to ashley_smith@bullard.com. Selected stories will be featured in an upcoming issue of this newsletter.