What special equipment is needed for a rapid intervention company or crew?

A rapid intervention company or crew is specifically designed to rescue firefighters who become trapped or incapacitated during firefighting operations. The primary goal of this specialized unit is to ensure safety and provide immediate assistance in emergencies.

The thermal imaging device is crucial for this purpose as it allows rescuers to locate downed firefighters in low visibility situations, such as smoky environments or structural collapses. It can see through smoke and darkness, identifying heat signatures, which is vital for quickly locating individuals who may be trapped or lost. This capability makes thermal imaging devices an essential part of the equipment required for a rapid intervention crew.

While other items such as fire hoses, rescue boats, and first aid kits are important in various firefighting operations, they do not specifically aid in the unique role of locating and rescuing firefighters in distress as effectively as the thermal imaging device does.