Thermal Imaging- Beyond the Image -- HOT

  • October 24, 2026
  • 1:00pm-5:00pm
  • FESTI -- 2025 Courtneypark Drive East Mississauga ON L5T 1J3

Facilitated by Cheryl Hunt & Mark Saunders

Today's thermal imaging cameras are more capable than ever, but many firefighters receive little formal training on how to interpret what they're seeing. As a result, TICs are often used as viewing devices rather than decision-making tools.

"Better tools don't make better firefighters. Better understanding does."


This session explores how to move beyond simply looking through the camera by understanding what a TIC can - and cannot - tell you. Through practical fireground examples, participants will learn how thermal imaging supports an effective size-up, enhances situational awareness, and contributes to sound tactical decision-making, while recognizing the limitations of the technology. The goal is to help firefighters use the TIC not just to "see" more, but to interpret what they're seeing thereby helping to build a plan and make confident tactical decisions.

Cheryl Hunt

Captain Cheryl Hunt has served with the Ottawa Fire Service for 24 years as a suppression firefighter and Safety Officer. She has built her career dedicated to leadership, education, and advancing the fire service through practical, evidence-based training.
Cheryl is an Effective Command and Fire Dynamics instructor, passionate about translating complex fireground concepts into practical skills that improve safety and decision-making. Technology is only as valuable as the firefighter using it and Cheryl's instructional focus challenges participants to move beyond simply operating equipment and instead develop the judgment and critical thinking that lead to better outcomes on the fireground.
Cheryl believes the best training doesn't just teach firefighters what to do, it teaches them how to turn information into decisions.

Mark Saunders

Coming Soon!