Turlock’s work to bring new technology into the fire department took another step forward this month, as city leaders joined approximately 50 public-safety, government, research and industry leaders from across the country at the Oklahoma State Capitol for the Oklahoma Public Safety Innovation Showcase.

Mayor Amy Bublak, City Manager Dr. John J. Murphy and Turlock Fire Division Chief David Mallory represented Turlock at the showcase, where the city was recognized as one of 10 communities nationwide with Qwake Technologies’ C-THRU system operationally deployed.

C-THRU is a helmet-mounted system that uses thermal imaging, computer vision and artificial intelligence to help firefighters see their surroundings and navigate in smoke-filled, low-visibility conditions. The system can also provide incident commanders outside with a live view of what firefighters are encountering inside.

Turlock’s early adoption of the system has given local firefighters firsthand experience with the technology in real-world conditions.

“We look for cities that punch above their weight and question limitations many have come to accept,” said Sam Cossman, co-founder and CEO of Qwake Technologies. “Mayor Amy Bublak and Turlock Fire’s leadership exemplifies what it means to shape what comes next to help make first responders safer rather than waiting for it. Turlock is leading from the front with C-THRU, and the experience its firefighters are gaining is helping to advance these lifesaving capabilities for first responders nationwide.”

During the showcase, Murphy put on the C-THRU helmet and entered a live-fire training unit to experience the technology firsthand. The controlled training environment allowed invited leaders to experience the system under simulated emergency conditions rather than simply watch a demonstration.