Ocala, FL. (352 Today) – Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) has been selected among just 80 fire departments nationwide to take part in a pioneering study of the C‑THRU Helmet Mounted System, developed by Qwake Technologies in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate. The field assessment aims to evaluate the device’s real-world performance in both training exercises and active response environments.
The C‑THRU system equips firefighters with enhanced situational awareness in smoke-filled, low-visibility conditions—one of the most perilous aspects of modern firefighting. The helmet-mounted device features a high-speed thermal camera and artificial intelligence that delivers edge‑detection outlines and thermal overlays directly onto a heads‑up display (HUD), enabling firefighters to identify walls, obstacles, victims, and exit paths with a clarity previously unavailable.
Marion County Fire Rescue tests cutting-edge C-THRU technology | Images courtesy of Marion County Fire Rescue
A green laser beam, projecting from the helmet and visible through thick smoke up to 30 feet, serves as a navigational aid and low‑tech indicator of direction, helping responders maintain orientation. Beyond its visual capabilities, the device offers real‑time streaming of what the firefighter sees back to command staff via the Visual Command app, allowing incident commanders to coordinate more effectively and even assist with mayday alerts and tracking.
Qwake’s innovations have received national recognition, including Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award. Judges highlighted its life‑saving impact—and cited that it has the potential to cut primary search times in half, a critical improvement in high-stakes rescue scenarios.
For victims trapped in smoke-filled environments, the C‑THRU system offers swift, hands-free visualization of their surroundings—making it easier for firefighters to locate and extract individuals more quickly and safely. For the responders themselves, enhanced navigation, constant situational updates, and integrated mayday functions all work together to reduce exposure risks and improve their own safety.
MCFR’s participation in this national pilot program underscores its enduring commitment to innovation, safety, and excellence in service across more than 1,600 square miles, supporting nearly 440,000 residents.