Washington, DC  -  Alexander City firefighters will soon have another piece of cutting edge equipment to help fight dense fires and ultimately save lives, Congressman Mike Rogers said today.

Known as a Thermal Imager, Rogers said the device will enable local firefighters to see through heavy smoke at the scene of a fire. The equipment was awarded by the Department of Homeland Security and is worth approximately $12,500.

“Every little bit counts when it comes to supporting our first responders,” Rogers said. “I am delighted the federal government has chosen to make these investments locally, and hope the device will help support the ongoing efforts of Alex City firefighters to keep our communities safe.”

Firefighting organizations say the technology is quickly becoming a recognized life saving tool in the firefighting community. The device works like a camera and allows firefighters to see humans trapped or unconscious at the scene of a fire.

Rogers is Chairman of the Homeland Security subcommittee on Management, Integration and Oversight and said these types of programs are critical for helping local communities prepare for and respond to emergencies. “These folks are our first line of defense locally, and I will continue to do whatever I can to support these types of initiatives,” he said.

Funding for the program is administered under the 2005 Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), which is overseen by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.