Scientists devlope indoor GPS aimed at rescue workers
In light of the recent deaths of firefighters both in Ireland and the UK, it’s clear that new initiatives need to be taken with regard to firefighters’ safety on the job.
Surprisingly it’s the French who have come up with a new system to help firefighters find their way around buildings when the smoke and flames get a little too much to handle.
According to New Scientist, IPS (Indoor Positioning System) , which was developed by aerospace firm, Thales could the solution. Previously, the problem with GPS was that it didn’t work inside buildings because of roofs and walls etc (X-ray satellites don’t exist yet and when they do, we’re pretty sure they’ll be illegal).
IPS is a new system, which involves the use of radio-transmitters. Rescue workers inside the building wear the transmitters and communicate with the crew outside via transmitters fitted to the fire trucks outside.
On a lighter note, anyone else think this would be super-handy when you’re looking for the loo roll in the supermarket ?
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