The Spring Hill Fire Department will buy an augmented-reality fire extinguisher trainer after receiving a $17,474 grant from the Gary Sinise Foundation, the city announced.

The grant, awarded through the foundation's First Responder Outreach Program, will fund a FiAR Fire Extinguisher Training System V2. The device lets trainees practice fire suppression with real extinguisher hardware in any indoor or outdoor setting, according to the city. It produces no chemical discharge, requires no cleanup and needs no reset time between users.

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted to accept the grant through Resolution 26-281 on Oct. 5.

Replacing outdated equipment

The department does not have a fire extinguisher training device for demonstrations or public education. Its previous unit was outdated, did not function correctly and was disposed of in 2024, according to the city.

According to the city, bringing the FiAR system in-house will further the department's Community Risk Reduction program by giving residents easier access to training.

"This amazing technology takes advantage of augmented reality to bring realistic live training to any location for actual hands-on experience," Fire Chief Graig Temple said in the city's announcement. "Our Community Risk Reduction efforts extend beyond messaging and fire safety best practices; if you, your workplace, or community group would like to demo this device and get the hands-on training, contact Captain Lisa Burns."

Madisen Gentry Moore, director of community outreach for the Gary Sinise Foundation, said in the announcement that the foundation was "honored to be able to assist" the department. She said the foundation hopes the equipment "helps keep your first responders safe and assists them in their life-saving day-to-day work."

What it does

The FiAR system is made by JHB Group. It is a handheld AR simulator that uses real extinguisher hardware, according to the manufacturer's website. The company says the device can train 50 or more people per hour.

Residents, workplaces and community groups interested in a demonstration can contact Captain Lisa Burns at the Spring Hill Fire Department.