Yonkers Insider: ***NEWS RELEASE***: YONKERS FIRE DEPARTMENT ENHANCES SAFETY WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS.

(L-R: SEEK, FLIR, ARGUS Courtesy: City of Yonkers)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS FIRE DEPARTMENT ENHANCES SAFETY WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS.

All Firefighters Now Equipped With New Technology.

Yonkers, NY -- July 18, 2024 – Mayor Mike Spano today announced the successful completion of a strategic plan to equip all Yonkers Firefighters with state-of-the-art handheld thermal imaging cameras (TICs). The Yonkers Fire Department is the first municipality in Westchester County to fully equip all members with this technology that can be utilized in any aspect of firefighting or rescue operations.

“This is a significant step toward enhancing safety for both our Firefighters and community,” said Mayor Spano. “These cameras allow our Firefighters another set of eyes in dangerous conditions where visibility can be impaired and will no doubt save lives.”

“This initiative represents a substantial investment in Yonkers’ safety and underscores the Mayor’s pledge to keep the City safe through careful planning and support,” said City of Yonkers Fire Department Commissioner William Fitzpatrick. “Thank you to Mayor Spano for consistently demonstrating the importance of the safety and well-being of our Firefighters.” 

These advanced devices are essential tools for firefighters and offer numerous benefits including the ability to see through darkness and smoke, provide critical incident information, and enhance rapid response and safety.

All Officers, Truck Firefighters, and Engine Company Firefighters are utilizing various models of the TICs.

• Rescue 1, Squad 11, and All Officers: These units use FLIR models, which are decision-making cameras used for search, rescue, temperature range, and tactical purposes.
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• Truck Firefighters: ARGUS cameras support tactical operations and search missions.
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• Engine Company Firefighters: SEEK cameras have recently been issued to all engine company members. These compact and lightweight cameras help quickly locate fires and serve as personal escape tools if necessary.

About the City of Yonkers

The City of Yonkers is the third largest city in New York State and Westchester County’s largest city. Yonkers serves as the gateway to the Hudson Valley with more than 40 vibrant and diverse suburban neighborhoods. First settled as a small farm town in 1646 settled by Dutchman Adriaen Van Der Donck, Yonkers evolved into a major trading and industrial center. Today, Yonkers hosts the largest film production studios in the Northeast, claiming the title Hollywood on Hudson. Yonkers is one of the safest cities of its size in the nation and is home to a vibrant arts district along with more than 80 local parks.

About Yonkers Fire Department:

The Yonkers Fire Department remains dedicated to protecting both the public and their property. As frontline responders to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, acts of terrorism, utility crises, and virtually every other form of assistance call, the Yonkers Fire Department ensures public safety and elevates it through proactive fire prevention, investigation, and fire safety education initiatives.