Within days after receiving a new thermal imaging camera, Yallourn North Fire Brigade members put it to the test at a small grass fire incident on Sunday, 27 December.
The 3M Scott V320 thermal imaging cameras were included in more than $90,000 worth of new equipment which was distributed across District 27 brigades as part of more than $4.8 million in donations allocated to a statewide CFA tools and equipment program.
Two Yallourn North units attended the incident scene on Archer Place at 1.42pm on Sunday afternoon.
Yallourn North firefighter Hayley King said the fire provided crews with their first opportunity to operate the thermal imaging camera at an incident scene since receiving it last Thursday.
"It's the first time we have used the camera operationally since undertaking training," she said.
"The camera makes mopping up more efficient and ensures crews are more thorough in blacking out hot spots."
The grass fire was contained to around 5 x 10 metres in size and was determined to have been started by grinding equipment which ignited dry grass.
District 27 Acting Commander Gavin Parker said it was a great opportunity for crews to consolidate their prior training with on-the-ground experience.
"Other brigades including Moe and Newborough have also used their new equipment since they it was issued during the Christmas break," he said.
"It is also a timely reminder for people using grinding and cutting equipment to ensure that the area is clear of flammable material.
"It is important people have a means of calling Triple Zero (000) in the case of an emergency and have adequate water supply or firefighting equipment nearby when undertaking these activities."
Crews concluded operations at the scene at around 2pm.
