Erie County Legislature Majority Leader Lynn M. Marinelli (D-Buffalo, Tonawanda) recently announced unanimous legislative approval of $12,000 to purchase a thermal imaging camera for the Buffalo Fire Department.

The Erie County funds granted by Legislator Marinelli will actually help pay for a thermal imaging camera and two backup batteries. The Firefighters Guardian Foundation promoted "Guardian Day" in June to raise awareness and funds for thermal imaging cameras.

"The use of thermal imaging cameras by the Buffalo Fire Department and other firefighters can be the difference between life and death," Legislator Marinelli said. "Not only will these cameras assist firefighters in finding people inside burning and smoke-filled buildings and allow them precious extra seconds to rescue them, but the use of these cameras will allow firefighters to spend less time in a building burning or filling with dangerous smoke."

Thermal imaging cameras are used by fire departments across Buffalo, Western New York and the country in firefighting operations, locating victims in structural collapses, water emergencies and low-light situations, and hazardous material (Haz Mat) applications, including evaluating drums and cylinders for heating. The U.S. Armed Forces also use thermal imaging cameras for a variety of activities.

"I am proud to facilitate county funding to provide our brave firefighters with an additional piece of equipment to make their jobs safer and more efficient and to protect our citizens," Legislator Marinelli said. "This continues the 6-9 years of progress providing firefighters in the 11th District with funds to purchase thermal imaging cameras and other necessary emergency response equipment."

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