Black Hot v. White Hot Thermal Images

While the choice between viewing thermal images as either black hot or white hot is completely up to user preference, each has its own strengths. In general, white hot works best for spotting human and animal targets because the heat they generate tends to make them "glow" and stand out from the environment. In contrast, black hot works best for navigation and scanning a scene because it displays the details of the environment much better. The black hot image to the left was shot in total darkness, and still it is easy to see the land, water and boat structure. This information gives tactical officers a significant strategic advantage.

Thermal infrared surveillance technology can provides clues not apparent to the naked eye, with flash or flood lights, or even with traditional "night vision" image enhancement systems. The white hot image to the left was shot in complete darkness. Not only is the suspect visible, but the camera also reveals that the parked car in the background recently arrived because it is still warm. No other night vision technology can deliver this level of detailed information. One of the greatest benefits of thermal imaging technology is the ability to see and document a scene without giving away the officer's location.

Thermal Imaging for Border Patrol

Border patrol agents need to cover vastly large areas with a limited number of officers. Protecting borders with thermal imaging increases apprehensions while decreasing strain on officers. Security Magazine reported that with a jurisdiction of 10,000 square miles, the Pima County Sheriff's Department acquired thermal imaging technology. The first four nights, officers returned with suspects and their drug-filled backpacks every night. The thermal imagers allow surveillance officers to overcome one of their greatest obstacles, total darkness. Man sized targets can be spotted over a half a mile away and are also visible in the glare of bright day light. Click here to read the full Security Magazine report.

How Law Enforcement Agencies Use Thermal Imaging Technology:

• Fugitive Searches: Find anyone hidden in foliage any time of day without giving away the officer's position
• Routine Patrols: See in the dark and find discarded evidence which retains the heat of the suspect after it has been dropped
• Tactical Support: Scout scenes before deploying officers and give snipers the ability to make positive facial identification
• Contraband Detection: Find hidden compartments in vehicles and structures with no physical contact
• Perimeter Surveillance: Find and track hidden individuals, even if they know a camera is present
• Search and Rescue: Find stranded fire victims, avalanche survivors, lost hikers, and plane crash victims, even if they are non- responsive