Fire-Dex introduces AI sizing tool for turnout gear

Fire-Dex has launched an artificial intelligence-driven tool called the Virtual Sizer to improve the accuracy and efficiency of firefighter turnout gear fittings in the United States.

According to Fire-Dex, the Virtual Sizer uses AI algorithms to calculate user measurements based on basic inputs including height, weight and shoe size.

The company reported that over 6,500 entries have already been processed through the tool.

Todd Herring, Vice President of Product Innovation and Strategy at Fire-Dex, said: “The response has been incredible. Firefighters are getting gear that fits better, faster. We’ve actually been testing and refining this technology internally for over five years to ensure accuracy before making it widely available.”

Tool aims to reduce errors caused by manual sizing

Fire-Dex stated that the Virtual Sizer removes the need for traditional sizing gear or tape measures, addressing potential inconsistencies that occur through manual measuring.

The company said the system is backed by more than 150 million AI-generated digital twins and informed by firefighter-specific data.

Herring said: “The technology is backed by over 150 million AI-generated digital twins and validated through extensive firefighter-specific data. It’s precise, tested and constantly improving with every use—meaning the more firefighters use it, the smarter and more accurate it becomes.”

According to Fire-Dex, the Virtual Sizer has undergone testing with fire departments across the United States and has shown results comparable to conventional sizing methods.

Memphis Fire uses Virtual Sizer to onboard out-of-state recruits

The City of Memphis Fire Department in Tennessee has used the Virtual Sizer to support the sizing of new recruits, especially those located outside of the region.

Keith James, Division Chief of Logistical Services at Memphis Fire, said the department has used the tool to size between 25 and 30 recruits from outside the local area.

James said: “It can be difficult for them to fly or drive in just for processing and fittings, especially when we’re trying to get gear ordered quickly so it arrives during class.”

He added: “We tested it first with a few people locally and found the output matched our sizing. That gave us the comfort level to roll it out further.”

Time-saving and accuracy benefits highlighted

According to Fire-Dex, the tool helps departments reduce delays and avoid the need for rework or resizing, while helping ensure that gear fits properly.

James said the implementation of the Virtual Sizer at Memphis Fire was straightforward and effective, with the department reporting no issues or resizing needs after deployment.

Herring said: “Our AI tool streamlines ordering, but the real winners here are the firefighters. The process is faster, but more importantly, emergency responders end up with gear that fits well and lets them focus on the job.”

Fire-Dex launches Virtual Sizer tool to streamline firefighter gear sizing in the US: Summary

Fire-Dex has launched the Virtual Sizer, an AI-driven sizing tool for firefighter turnout gear.

The tool calculates sizing based on user inputs including height, weight and shoe size.

Over 6,500 entries have been recorded since launch, according to Fire-Dex.

It is backed by 150 million AI-generated digital twins and tested with firefighter-specific data.

Memphis Fire Department has used the tool to size 25 to 30 recruits from out of state.

The department reported that no resizing was required after using the Virtual Sizer.

Fire-Dex has tested the tool internally for over five years.

The company says the tool eliminates inconsistencies caused by traditional sizing methods.

Memphis Fire noted time savings and ease of implementation as benefits.

Fire-Dex said the tool continues to improve its accuracy through use.