Virtual Reality Fire Training with FLAIM vs. Gas Fire Training

Fire safety training plays a critical role in preparing teams for emergency situations, helping them react swiftly and confidently in the event of a fire. For years, gas fire training has been a common method, offering hands-on experience in extinguishing controlled flames. However, advances in technology have introduced a new way of conducting fire extinguisher training: Virtual Reality (VR). 

The FLAIM VR system is one such solution, providing significant benefits over traditional gas fire training. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between gas fire training and VR training using FLAIM, helping you understand how this technology could reshape fire safety training for you and your business.

Gas Fire Training vs. VR Training

Traditional Gas Fire Training

Gas fire training has been widely used to simulate real-life fire emergencies. During these scenarios, participants typically handle fire extinguishers to put out controlled flames generated by a gas burner. While this method allows hands-on experience, it comes with some constraints, including the risks of handling live fires, the need for specific outdoor spaces, and the environmental impact due to fuel consumption.

Virtual Reality Fire Training

In contrast, VR training provides an immersive, interactive experience where participants can tackle fire scenarios in a safe, controlled, and realistic environment. The FLAIM system, in particular, stands out due to its flexibility, safety, and environmental benefits. With no need for real flames, VR eliminates many of the risks associated with traditional training while maintaining a high degree of realism. What’s more, sessions can be conducted in the comfort of an airconditioned office, negating the need to plan around weather and temperature. 

Key Benefits of VR Training with FLAIM

  1. Realism Without Risks
    One of the most significant advantages of VR training is the ability to simulate realistic fire emergencies without the dangers associated with live fires. In traditional gas fire training, even though flames are controlled, there’s still a level of risk involved when handling extinguishers and interacting with fire.

The FLAIM VR system allows trainees to interact with fire in various environments—from an office building to an industrial facility—without the hazards. This risk-free environment encourages participants to practice confidently and repeatedly, building their skills without the fear of injury or exposure to dangerous conditions.

  1. Diverse Scenario Range
    The FLAIM system offers an extensive selection of fire scenarios, providing over 50 different situations that reflect real-world environments across a wide range of industries. Whether it’s a warehouse emergency, a kitchen fire, or a fire in a residential building, participants can practice their response in settings tailored to their work environment.

This level of diversity is hard to match with traditional gas fire training, which is often restricted to outdoor setups with limited scenario variety. With FLAIM, the training environment can be tailored to industry-specific risks, making it more relevant and practical for participants.

  1. Cost and Environmental Impact
    One of the practical advantages of VR fire training is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional gas fire training requires consumable resources, such as gas, fire extinguishers, and safety gear, all of which need to be replenished regularly. Additionally, gas fire training setups can be logistically complex, requiring sufficient space outdoors and safety measures.

On the other hand, VR training with FLAIM significantly reduces these costs. Once the system is set up, participants can go through multiple sessions without additional resources, and there’s no need to worry about replenishing extinguishers or gas. This also significantly reduces the environmental impact of training, as no emissions are produced during a VR session, unlike traditional methods that rely on gas and fuel.

  1. Instant Feedback and Performance Tracking
    Another key benefit of the FLAIM system is its ability to provide real-time data and feedback during training. As participants go through the various fire scenarios, the system tracks their actions, such as how effectively they use the extinguisher, how quickly they respond, and whether correct procedures are followed. This real-time visual display allows trainers to provide detailed feedback on performance to a broader group, highlighting areas of strength and improvement.

Why Choose VR Fire Training?

The introduction of VR technology in fire safety training has brought a significant shift in how organizations can prepare their teams for emergencies, with technology rapidly developing. With FLAIM, the training experience is not only safer  but also more engaging for participants. They can learn, practice, and refine their fire response skills in an environment that closely mirrors real-life conditions, without the associated risks and costs of traditional methods.

For businesses, this means more effective training that aligns with modern safety standards and environmental considerations. VR training is also highly customizable, making it ideal for industries with unique fire safety challenges. Whether your team works in an office, warehouse, or industrial site, the FLAIM system provides relevant, impactful training that goes beyond what conventional gas fire training can offer.

For more information on how FLAIM Virtual Reality Fire Extinguisher training can enhance your team’s fire safety preparedness, contact FireReady Australia today and speak with one of our experienced trainers!