How many decisions do you make in seconds on the fireground, and what happens if technology slows you down?

Hello Smart Firefighting Community!

Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy.

Recorded live at the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) 2025 Conference alongside the AFAC, WAFA, and Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience Conference in Perth, Australia.

In this episode, Peter Dekkers from Teledyne FLIR talks about one idea that continues to define public safety operations: time. From interior fire attack to wide area search and wildland operations, Peter explains how thermal imaging helps first responders make faster and better decisions when every second carries weight.

He shares what’s new inside FLIR’s latest K Series fire cameras, including a major shift in responsiveness that removes image delay when moving across temperature ranges, allowing crews to stay focused without missing critical details. The discussion also explores the Scout Pro and its role across fire and law enforcement, from missing person searches and maritime response to supporting wildfire suppression from the ground.

The episode closes with a clear message about trust, not as a slogan, but as a responsibility. When first responders carry technology into dangerous environments, their lives depend on it working exactly as promised, every time.

So take a listen to hear what he has to share.

Episode 306: Why Time Matters Most in Fireground Decision-Making with Peter Dekkers