Cooperative Personnel Services Firefighter (CPS) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Firefighter Exam Questions and Study Guide

The primary use of a thermal imaging camera in firefighting is to locate fire victims through heat detection. These cameras are designed to detect infrared radiation, which allows firefighters to see variations in heat signatures. During a rescue operation, this capability is crucial because it enables firefighters to quickly identify the location of individuals who may be trapped or unconscious in environments filled with smoke or darkness where visibility is severely limited.

By using thermal imaging, responders can efficiently and effectively navigate through hazardous environments, pinpointing the exact locations of victims based on their body heat. This enhances the likelihood of successful rescues and improves overall safety for both the victims and the firefighting personnel.

While the other options listed involve different aspects of firefighting and emergency response, they do not capture the primary purpose of thermal imaging technology in the context of immediate rescue operations in a fire situation.