Firefighting Research: Extreme Heat

Toronto Fire Services (TFS) and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) researcher Michael Williams-Bell conducted research examining the effects of treadmill exercise in a hot, humid environment on cognitive function in fire fighters. The purpose of this research is to determine at what level of core body temperature are cognitive impairments observed. The research will provide further insight into the safest work practices at an emergency scene.
TFS fire fighters were recruited to undergo treadmill exercise in ACE's climate chamber, at 35°C and 50% humidity.Throughout exercise the fire fighters’ core temperature will continue to increase and at various points their cognitive function will be assessed using either a traditional cognitive assessment battery or a more ‘realistic’ simulation of fire ground decision making through a serious game. The overall goal of this research study is to determine if using serious games can assess the decision making skills of fire fighters. If this is the case, it provides an avenue to develop serious games that can assist in training proper decision making at emergency scenarios through simulations requiring minimal expense or equipment.
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