April 22, 2008 Email Print Talk BackRegisterBookmarkWhat's This

First Response in Low-Light/No-Light Conditions

Disasters, crimes and other adverse situations do not discriminate when it comes to timing. In fact, most first responders will respond to these incidents at the most inopportune times, such as at night, when it is naturally dark and artificial light is not always present, or during daylight hours in areas where there is insufficient lighting.

At times like these, utilizing various low-light/no-light tools such as image intensification/night vision equipment, white light technology and thermal imaging – either individually or in concert – can mean the difference between rescuing a missing person, preventing crime or injury, apprehending a criminal or saving someone else’s life or your own.

Low-light/No-Light Technology
As mentioned above, there are low-light/no-light tools first responders can use not only to increase their chances for mission success, but also to optimize safety for themselves and others. Ideally, all three types – night vision, white light and thermal imaging – will be used together to operate under any lighting condition. The following is an overview of each type of technology:

Night Vision
Image intensifier (I2) technology – or night vision, as it is more commonly known – amplifies existing light to produce visible images for first responders, giving them a critical advantage in low-light/no-light scenarios. Generation (Gen) 3, used by U.S. and allied military branches throughout the world, is the most advanced night vision technology available. It allows users to see and discern distinct features of suspects (including facial and other characteristics) and their surroundings (including structural hazards).

In addition, in areas that are not secured, night vision enables responders to remain covert and be productive in their efforts until those areas are secured and white light can be used (either exclusively or in conjunction with night vision). An added benefit of night vision to first responders is that it allows users to see through glass, including tinted windows.

White Light
White light equipment, a staple for all first responders, includes flashlights and floodlights and uses artificial and visible light to illuminate targeted areas. When used in a secure area, white light enables first responders to ascertain critical information quickly and operate safely. However, if an area is not secured, as was the case in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina struck, using white light can compromise a first responder’s position, making him or her an easy target for any criminals that are still in the area. Such situations highlight the need to equip first responders with white light as well as a tool such as night vision, which enables them to be successful in virtually every low-light/no-light situation.

Thermal Imaging Technology

Thermal imaging is a useful tool for detecting images that might be obstructed by objects or substances such as smoke or fog. Thermal imaging relies on a lens that focuses infrared light emitted by all objects in view. A phased array of infrared detector elements scans the focused light, quickly obtaining objects’ temperatures and creating a pattern known as a thermogram. Thermograms are then translated into electric impulses that are sent to a signal-processing unit that then creates an image that appears in various colors. (The colors displayed in the image correspond with the amount of heat being radiated by the object in view.)

While thermal imaging is useful for some forms of detection, it cannot provide detailed images. There is no facial recognition, and smaller objects such as weapons – unless the suspect is carrying a gun that has been fired recently – cannot be detected easily.
 
Low-Light/No-Light Scenarios
Night vision, white light and thermal imaging can be used around the clock.  The following are common situations that first responders across the nation face in the course of their duties:

Natural Disasters
An extended loss of power can create a variety of low-light/no-light situations, making it even more difficult for first responders to conduct rescue efforts and prevent looting and other crimes. Low-light/no-light equipment enables them to navigate unstable and potentially dangerous areas more safely as they carry out their responsibilities.

Search and Rescue Missions
Every second is critical in locating missing persons, especially the elderly and young children – first responders cannot afford to stop simply because the sun goes down. Using a combination of low-light/no-light tools allows efforts to continue long after dark and in areas of darkness during the day.

Surveillance
Criminals and terrorists use darkness as a cover for their activities. Low-light/no-light equipment can even the score, allowing officers to conduct surveillance on meetings, transactions and surveillance operations conducted by criminals in dark and secluded areas.

Low-Light/No-Light Training
In order to receive the full benefits of the technologies highlighted above, users must understand the full capacity of the equipment and receive comprehensive training for basic operation as well as tactical deployment. This training should complement local, state and regional homeland security planning and preparation for terrorist events and natural disasters. The scenarios described here are just a few examples of how low-light/no-light situations can impact the work of first responders and the communities they serve. The challenges posed by darkness are not insurmountable, but they do require the foresight, planning, equipment and training needed to prepare responders for successful missions.

Chief Tom Dugan is retired from the Glen Ridge Police Department in Glen Ridge, N.J. Chief Dugan currently serves as Law Enforcement Projects Coordinator for ITT Night Vision.