COUNTY firefighters have become the first in Britain to equip themselves with the latest life-saving technology.

Thermal imaging cameras, which allow crews "to see" in zero visibility conditions, will revolutionise the way smoke and flame-filled rooms are searched.

The hand-held terminals, which use an optical sensor to show a clear picture of what lies ahead, can pierce dense smoke, highlighting people and the hottest areas of the room.

"This technology will save lives," said Herefordshire and Worcestershire brigade spokesman Ian Grant.

"The brigade has been looking at thermal imagery for months and we decided this equipment will work the best for us. It's great to be the first to have it here."

The technology allows two-man teams to enter a room and examine its contents quickly and safely on the camera's screen. Anyone in the room can be immediately located.

Cameras can also identify the route and spread of the fire, detect the temperature of objects and also has a zoom facility.

"Firefighting has changed massively over time and this is another step towards improving the efficiency of the service," said Mr Grant.

"Previously teams had to enter a room filled with dense smoke, sweep left then right and then check the middle to see what was there.

"This equipment will let crews move swiftly and safely through a room, which has no impediments, without having to worry about what's around them."

The cameras not only increase the speed firefighters can work, but record the temperature, day and time of an incident. A link-up can also download images from the scene.

These images can then be used for fire investigations, inquests and police inquiries.

The 13 new Argus 3 cameras, which cost £5,700 each, should be available for use from Thursday.

They will be added to 16 existing older models at fire stations across the two counties, including Worcester, Malvern and Droitwich.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Fire Brigade was also among the first in the country to introduce computers - which hold building plans and maps - to their fire engines six years ago.

"We have been something of a market leader with new technology," said Mr Grant.