VIDEO: Orange County Fire Rescue is testing new augmented reality (AR) helmets that improve visibility through thick smoke. Orange County Fire Rescue is among 80 departments nationwide selected to test a new AR helmet designed to enhance firefighter visibility in smoke-filled environments. Developed by Qwake Technologies, the C-THRU helmet allows firefighters to see through heavy smoke by projecting a live, thermal-based image of the room directly onto a display inside the helmet. The technology aims to improve navigation, help responders avoid obstacles, and identify victims more quickly during rescue operations. In addition to real-time visual support, the helmets upload footage to a cloud-based system, enabling command staff and other team members to observe what firefighters are seeing on the ground.
