Ohio Fire Chief’s Conference July 14th

Instructor Rob Homman will be providing a classroom presentation titled “Why Thermal Imaging is Important?” on July 14th 2026.

In today’s fire environment, the threat of thermal insult should be of paramount concern.
Understanding this environment is crucial to successful outcomes for both our victims and the
firefighters entering the structure.

This presentation will highlight what our eyes cannot see we cannot see with our eyes: infrared
energy or “dark heat”. The audience will gain a better understanding of how thermal insult
affects us, our gear, and, more importantly, our the victims. There will be examples of how the
proper use of thermal imaging can improve our strategies and tactics for a more effective fire
attack and increased search efficiency. We will briefly explore NFPA 1408 and 1801 to gain a
better understanding of how camera selection and maintenance can assist us in winning on the
dynamic fireground.

Robert Homman started his fire career as a volunteer in Pennsylvania. Returning from Desert
Storm, he moved to Ohio to pursue a career as a firefighter. He retired as a Lieutenant after 29
years with the city of Whitehall. He is currently the Chief of the County Line Joint Fire District
in Utica. He is an adjunct instructor for the Ohio Fire Academy and a lead instructor with Insight
Training LLC.

Chief Homman has been a student of firefighting for 36 years. He is a level one thermologist
with Insight Training LLC and an instructor for the Ohio Fire Academy.

https://ohiofirechiefs.com/aws/OFCA/asset_manager/get_file/950212?ver=1