AKRON, Ohio -- Akron Fire Department will purchase 10 new thermal imaging units to help firefighters see through smoke.

The equipment will be funded by the 0.25-percent income tax increase passed in November 2017. Akron City Council unanimously approved the purchase.

Thermal imaging cameras can detect heat energy through darkness, smoke and dust. The technology allows first responders to locate fire victims in instances of little to no visibility.

"For a firefighter searching for a trapped victim, little is worse than losing your ability to see due to darkness or dense smoke," Akron Fire Chief Clarence Tucker said in a news release. "In a rescue operation where every second counts, these units can make the difference between life and death by enabling us to find victims faster and increasing their chances of survival."

Thermal imaging equipment can locate hot spots and hidden flames inside structures to quickly detect the main source of a fire. The technology is also used to identify overheated circuits in homes and businesses to prevent electrical fires.

The new units will replace outdated equipment and allow fire service personnel to protect lives, property and the environment by suppressing fires faster and preventing firefighter injuries.

Akron City Council will publicly advertise for bids for the 10 units, which cost approximately $50,000.

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said the community's support of Issue 4 allows the city to invest in this type of critical safety equipment. The full Issue 4 budget for 2018 is available at akronohio.gov.

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