SAM Partners with Qwake Technologies
The firefighting industry isn’t typically recognized for its ability to develop disruptive technology. However, as technology becomes increasingly critical across nearly every sector, firefighting is no different. As the industry continues to evolve, innovative technologies will be essential to driving progress, recruiting the next generation, and improving safety and efficiency.
How Technology Can Transform Fire Response
Earlier this year at FDIC 2025, SAM Waterflow and Qwake Technologies premiered The Best Damn Job video, a tribute to Bobby Halton. Halton, who played a critical role in shaping the FDIC conference into what it is today, believed strongly in the critical role that technology will play in bringing younger generations into the firefighting industry.
Both featured in the video, SAM and Qwake Technologies are working to develop and deliver cutting-edge technologies that address the unique challenges firefighters are currently managing day-to-day. Together, they developed The Best Damn Job video to showcase the power of technology on the fireground.
Connected solutions like those featured in the video empowers firefighters with smarter, faster, and safer decision-making on the fireground. From real-time data and remote equipment control to automated waterflow and situational awareness tools, connected systems reduce manual tasks and streamline operations. The result: faster response, improved coordination, and greater protection for both crews and communities.
The video shows the C-THRU system's display, which enhances a firefighter's vision in a zero-visibility environment and displays a "MAYDAY" Alert.
C-THRU Technology with Qwake Technologies
One of the biggest challenges firefighters face is the inability to see clearly in dark, smoke-filled environments, which can hinder their ability to make timely, data-driven decisions during critical emergency situations. To address this, Qwake Technologies teams are developing advanced fire helmet technology that enhances visibility in low-light conditions—comparable to x-ray technology.
This innovation enables firefighters to locate individuals and navigate situations more effectively, even in complete blackout situations. C-THRU, a cutting-edge system, reduces primary search time in half while delivering unprecedented situational awareness in zero-visibility environments. Earlier this year, C-THRU received an award from Fast Company for its world-changing innovation. As The Best Damn Job video shows, the C-THRU technology is transformational.
SAM Waterflow by IDEX Fire & Safety
The SAM Pump Control System supports firefighters by automating critical waterflow operations, allowing the pump operator to focus on the fireground instead of managing repetitive pump tasks. With intuitive touchscreen controls and smart pressure management, SAM ensures consistent water delivery, even during sudden changes in water pressure. This reduces human error and keeps the crew flowing without interruption.
On the fireground, SAM gives incident commanders and operators greater control and visibility. Real-time data and visual alerts help teams make faster, more informed decisions. By handling the mechanics of water control, SAM frees up personnel to engage in strategy, safety checks, and hands-on suppression—ultimately improving efficiency, communication and safety when seconds count.
Firefighter operating SAM Smart Nozzle.
The Difference Connected Solutions Can Make
SAM and Qwake are working to bring broad awareness to fire departments about the difference that technology can make for those doing very brave, life-saving work. The two are committed to driving widespread adoption of technological advancements like SAM and C-THRU. This is not about replacing firefighters. It's about making them faster and more efficient. And, it's about recruiting the next generation of firefighters.
The Best Damn Job
The Best Damn Job is one of four videos developed for the IDEX Fire & Safety Recruitment Toolkit. This toolkit provides free recruitment resources to fire departments to help recruit, showcase new technology, and strengthen the crews communities rely on. You can watch Bobby Halton’s legendary keynote speed from FDIC 2019 here: FDIC International 2019: The Best Damn Job We've Ever Had. Plus, read more about the role of technology in recruitment in a recent study with Lexipol: Recent Study Shows Technology Will Be a Critical Factor in Firefighting Recruitment Efforts