North Raleigh Today

Lt. Lemuel Hubbard of the Raleigh Fire Department recently experienced the benefits of virtual reality safety training firsthand when testing out the new FLAIM training equipment. Reflecting on the simulation, Hubbard recounted, "One minute I’m confidently using a fire extinguisher to put out a cooking fire and the next I’m screaming, jumping backwards. The water I was spraying on the stove rapidly heated and vaporized, lifting the flaming oil into the air and exploding into a ball of grease." He emphasized the importance of proper training, advising, "Never use water on a grease fire."

The FLAIM training kit offers a comprehensive virtual reality experience, including a VR headset, a real-sized fire extinguisher, and software with realistic scenarios spanning different environments such as residential, healthcare, construction, and transportation. Lt. Hubbard highlighted the immersive learning opportunities provided by FLAIM, stating, "Flaim offers immersive VR learning for training in hazardous and emergency situations. Flaim’s algorithms mimic real fire behavior including movement, smoke, flashover, and explosions."

The Raleigh Fire Department was able to acquire the FLAIM system through a $10,000 grant from The Hartford investment and insurance company, dedicated to supporting fire safety education initiatives. Assistant Fire Chief Ray Enoch underscored the effectiveness of fire extinguishers when used correctly, noting that "fire extinguishers are effective 95 percent of the time." Enoch praised the FLAIM system for offering engaging and cost-effective training experiences that enhance safety and compliance within organizations.

In a recent training session with local warehouse employees, the Raleigh Fire Department utilized the FLAIM system to simulate fire extinguisher usage in a warehouse environment complete with pellets and forklifts. Enoch emphasized the system's potential to enhance organizational safety practices, stating, "The system can improve organizational safety and compliance."

Businesses, schools, and community groups interested in availing themselves of the Raleigh Fire Department's virtual reality safety training can reach out via email at fireprevention@raleighnc.gov or by calling 919-996-6392. The training sessions, made possible by the FLAIM system, are offered free of charge, providing a valuable opportunity for individuals and organizations to enhance their fire safety knowledge and skills.