Some of the most common applications for an infrared camera include:
- Firefighting: Thermal imaging devices have the ability to see through smoke and debris. Thus, firefighters use these devices to locate people hiding in closets and other places to escape the fire. In addition, they will be able to spot people who might have passed out because of having inhaled too much smoke. In addition, thermal images can also help firefighters tell if a door is hot and if there is a fierce blaze on the other side.
- Law Enforcement: Law enforcement professionals and military professionals have been using thermal imaging devices for many years now. These devices enable them to identify unauthorised intruders trying to gain access to various kinds of important facilities. More importantly, these devices can function in zero visibility conditions as well. Thus, identifying potential intruders becomes a lot easier. People in the police use these cameras for detecting the presence of fugitives too.
- Hunting: Many animals such as wild hogs can wreak havoc in farms. These creatures seldom go out during the day. In addition, they utilise plant or tree cover to conceal themselves. In order to protect their crops, farmers can use thermal imagers for detecting these animals.
- Energy Audits: Energy efficient homes are a boon for the homeowners. People typically want their homes to remain cool on hot days and warm on cold ones. But, each door and window can lead to thermal losses. This would make the occupant consume more power than needed, thereby incurring a higher energy bill. To minimise the loss of heat, people, heating and cooling companies use thermal imagers to detect cracks and holes that facilitate the escape of heat.
- Surveillance: Thermal imaging devices such as the drone thermal camera can work equally well in the day or during the night. This make them one of the most effective tools for surveillance of properties. Some people might feel that their closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are ideal for keeping a watch on their properties. But, these cameras remain constrained by their need for proper light. Similarly, using night vision cameras is not very viable either. This is especially so because night vision cameras do not function during the day. In contrast, thermal imaging cameras can work well in nearly all conditions. In many cases, they can function despite the presence of fog and smoke.