Which piece of equipment is commonly used to measure the temperature of a fire?

The thermal imaging camera is commonly used to measure the temperature of a fire and assess its behavior. This equipment captures infrared radiation emitted by objects, including fires, translating that energy into a visual representation. The resulting images allow users to identify hot spots and the intensity of the heat, which is crucial for firefighting operations and search and rescue missions. Thermal imaging cameras help firefighters locate victims trapped in smoke and determine the best approach for extinguishing a fire, as they can see through smoke and darkness.

Other equipment listed, such as portable fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and fire blankets, serve different primary functions. Portable fire extinguishers are used to extinguish small fires, smoke detectors are designed to detect smoke and alert occupants to potential fire hazards, and fire blankets are typically employed to smother flames or provide protection to individuals against fire. While these tools are essential in fire safety and response, they do not measure temperature directly as the thermal imaging camera does.