Toddler rescued from house fire using Thermal Imaging Camera

A three-year-old was rescued from a burning house in Invercargill, New Zealand this morning.

Through the blaze and thick smoke, firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to find the boy in a bedroom. He was immediately rushed to hospital by ambulance.

Three other people were also taken to hospital. Two are being treated for smoke inhalation and another for minor injuries.

The fire started in Teviot St just after 8am, Southland Fire Area Manager Bruce Stubbs said.

A large amount of smoke could be seen by firefighters travelling to the call.

When they arrived, they saw flames coming from windows on the east side of the property and received reports a child was trapped.

It took about 20 minutes to bring the fire under control, Mr Stubbs said.

Firefighters remained at the scene dampening hot spots which were also located using the thermal imaging camera.

The fire is thought to have started in the lounge area, although this will be investigated by specialist staff at the scene.

The cause remains unclear and it is not known whether working smoke alarms were fitted.

Thermal imaging technology is available from e2v, who has a 30 year heritage in the industry. Further information on the Argus handheld thermal imaging camera from e2v can be found by visiting www.argusdirect.com/fire.