JAPANESE electronics maker NEC has developed high-tech equipment to help firefighters navigate smoke-filled rooms. The firm and its partners have created a mask that can see in the dark and display crucial information. NEC says the so-called “smart mask” is equipped with an infrared camera. It can help firefighters find their way and locate people waiting to be rescued, even in extreme conditions. Images are shown on a small display mounted near the eyes. It can also show data including how much oxygen is left in air tanks. The mask shares the images and data with commanders and allows them to communicate with firefighters in harm’s way. “Every second counts during a fire. The mask will help firefighters see in the dark, which could significantly shorten the amount of time they need to be in a dangerous situation,” NEC’s Fukukawa Masatoshi said. NEC hopes to put the system into practical use by early 2023. (SD-Agencies) | 