The largest fire department in western Massachusetts has deployed new high tech equipment.
The Springfield Fire Department Thursday showcased five new pieces of equipment including a small robot that can be tossed through a window to let firefighters see what’s happening inside a burning building, a drone with hi-def thermal imaging cameras, and a poisonous gas and radiation detection system with a range of up to two miles.
Fire Commissioner Bernard Calvi said the new gear is now in use.
"Equipment like this is important to protect the citizens of the city of Springfield," said Calvi.
The new equipment, which cost about $100,000, was paid for with private donations and some federal funds.
It was purchased by the city's Office of Emergency Prepardness.
