Southwest Missouri News--Carthage

by Carol Harris, Branson area, and Mary Engler-Guccione, Joplin area

The Carthage Fire Department has begun a fund-raising campaign to purchase two infrared cameras.

The fund-raising goal is $50,000. The cameras, which allow the wearer to see heat through smoke, are mounted on helmets worn by firefighters.

The cameras may be used to find people, and to "see" through walls, floors and ceilings to find the source of a fire. When fire sources are located quickly, property loss from excessive water use is reduced.

As part of the fund-raising campaign, letters have been sent to businesses and service clubs requesting donations. Other fund-raising activities are planned, and firefighters have donated $500 for the campaign.