Kiwi firefighters and other first responders are set to benefit from the introduction of a new type of training.
Virtual reality training developed at Deakin University's Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation in Victoria, Australia, will prepare firefighters for complex and unsafe scenarios.
The 'FLAIM' system simulates real-life situations, and includes protective clothing that generates realistic heat.
It means firefighters can fight big flames and take on the risks of a burning building, all while staying safe.
Building and Fire Services managing director and health and safety consultant Mike Lindsay told The AM Show the technology can be used to create scenarios such as aviation crashes, maritime accidents, and large structure fires.
"We can put trainees into those scenarios that they wouldn't normally get a chance to be in."
As well as the virtual reality goggles, a breathing apparatus, heat vest, suit, and interactive hose reel have also been developed.
"They can see and feel all those effects of the fire," Lindsay told The AM Show. "So they're actually hearing the sound of it, they're seeing the reaction."
Lindsay said it will prepare firefighters for tricky conditions.
"As the firefighter comes close to the fire, they feel the heat on their chest.
"The benefit is it's putting them in a real environment - but there's no nasty environmental toxins, and we're not putting that person at risk."
Newshub.
