Project Charlie to Provide Lifesaving Technology to Fire Departments
By Sheila Duncan
Reporter
Project Charlie, which started in 2022, raises funds to get thermal imagers (TI) into fire departments across the state of Alabama. TIs help firefighters detect trapped victims through thick smoke and debris.
In July of 2022, Alder Springs Volunteer Fire Department in Marshall County, Alabama, was called out to a structure fire where a grandfather and two children were trapped inside. The grandfather and one child were located and rescued. The other child was brought out by the Albertville Fire Department, but she took longer to locate and had severe smoke inhalation. This was a young girl named Charlie. Medics from Marshall County Health System Ambulance Service provided patient care until they reached the hospital where she passed away.
Thermal imaging cameras would have helped save Charlie’s life, now Chief Edwards mission is to get these cameras into the hands of first responders so other lives can be saved.
The next goal is to expand this project to the entire state and put a camera in every career and volunteer fire department in Alabama. This is a lofty goal that is only possible with the support of communities. To help raise awareness or donations for Project Charlie, Chief Edwards can be reached at 256-302-4161to host a presentation at your office, church, or organization. Stay up to date on our progress by following Project Charlie for Thermal Imaging on Facebook.
Together, we can provide lifesaving technology to Fire Departments all across Alabama.
