Thermal Imaging for Marine Firefighting

19 May 2025

Thermal Imaging for Marine Firefighting

Designed specifically for marine fire service, the FLIR M400XR is a high-performance, triple-payload thermal imaging system.

M400XR: Purpose-Built for Marine Firefighting

FLIR Marine cameras are essential tools for night-time navigation, collision avoidance, and long-range observation. For marine firefighting vessels, selecting the right thermal camera can significantly enhance mission safety and effectiveness. 

Designed specifically for marine fire service, the FLIR M400XR is a high-performance, triple-payload thermal imaging system. Featuring an advanced thermal imager, HD ultra low-light camera, and a borescope-aligned LED spotlight, this gyro-stabilized pan-tilt-zoom system is engineered to withstand the rigors of emergency response operations. 

M400 series FLIR marine thermal camera.


Enhancing Situational Awareness 

Fireboat duty is demanding, where every second counts. Responders must have instant access to clear, actionable information to make quick, informed decisions. The M400XR serves as an extra set of eyes, helping crews spot vessel traffic, obstacles, floating debris, and navigational markers - day or night. By improving visibility, it ensures marine firefighters arrive on scene safely and efficiently.


Firefighter Mode: Optimized for Extreme Temperatures 

Standard thermal cameras used for navigation and collision avoidance have a 300°F temperature calibration limit, insufficient for fire scenes' high heat. The M400XR, however, is optimized for temperatures up to 1000°F, delivering superior firefighting capabilities. 

  • Radiometric measurement detects and displays real-time temperature readings in the camera’s field of view. 
  • A center-spot measurement tool provides precise temperature data for targeted assessment. 
  • The Isotherm color palette highlights the hottest areas, dynamically colorizing hotspots in red-to-orange while cooler regions appear in shades of gray. This enables firefighters to focus suppression efforts effectively. 
M400 Firefighter mode


Seeing Through Smoke & Assessing Structural Integrity 

Thermal imaging isn’t just about heat detection - it penetrates smoke and dust, providing commanders with a clearer view of the situation. Firefighters in view of the M400XR become more visible to fireboat crews, improving coordination and safety. 

Additionally, thermal imaging offers crucial insights into vessel structures: 

  • Detects temperature variations that reveal differences between hot and cold compartments. 
  • Identifies water accumulation, tank levels, and burn-through risks. 
  • Assists in assessing the condition of victim vessels and marine structures. 


A Critical Tool for Marine Firefighting 

High-performance thermal cameras are indispensable on any vessel, but for fast-response firefighting teams, they are mission-critical. The FLIR M400XR brings next-level situational awareness, helping marine crews see, assess, and respond more effectively when every second matters.

York County fire rescue boat