Wouldn’t it be interesting if there’s a way to record the adventures and challenges that firefighters face on the regular? Not only will it make some exciting content that will keep you at the edge of your seats but it can also do so much in enhancing their safety protocols.
This is why the use of firefighter helmet cameras are welcomed by fire departments all over the globe. They can truly come in handy to these heroes who risk their lives daily for the safety of the public.
If you’re interested in getting one, here’s a quick guide on which ones to look into and some good tips in choosing the right one that will suit your needs.
Contents
Top Firefighter Helmet Cameras
| Product Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| ContourHD 1080p Helmet Camera | Full HD resolution 1080p, 30 fpsBuilt-in omni-directional microphoneTRail system135° wide-angle lens3 resolutions and 2 frame rates5.2 ouncesUp to 4-hour battery life |
| Tachyon 1080p BikerCam Motorcycle Camera System | Full HD resolution 1080pHD audioCharge ‘n RecordPatented 8-direction mounting systemAuto-start and stop recording upon ignition and shutdown2-hour battery life |
| Fire Cam 1080p Helmet Camera (US) | Professional-grade heat and water resistant build1080p @ 30fps / 720p @ 60fps resolutionsUltra wide angle viewAuto low light adjustment2-hour battery life32gb U1 micro SD Card includedBlackJack Fire Cam Mount included |
| HD Metal Firefighter Water Proof Mini Metal Camera 120 Degrees Wide Angle + Blackjack Helmet Mount | HD resolution 1280×720 @ 30fps120° field of viewFireproof metal alloy shellWeather and shock resistant2.5-hour battery timeComes with Blackjack Helmet mount |
| Fire Cam MINI1080 Helmet Camera (US) | Professional-grade heat and water resistant buildCompact designWi-fi connectivityChoice of 2 resolutions (1080p @ 30fps / 720p @ 60fps) Auto low light adjustment2-hour battery life32gb U1 micro SD Card, end caps includedBlackjack Fire Cam mount included |
| Fire Cam 4K WiFi 32GB (US) | Professional-grade heat and water resistant buildSony lensOptional date and time video stampFull HD resolution 1080@60 fps32gb micro SD card, rechargeable batteries, extra O rings included |
| HD Metal Firefighter Helmet Fire Proof 120 Degree Wide Angle Water Resistant Camera | Fireproof metal alloy shellShock and weather resistantTrue HD resolution (1280*720 @ 30FPS)Supports micro SD cards up to 32gb in size |
Reviews of the Best Firefighter Helmet Cameras
1. ContourHD 1080p Helmet Camera
Kicking off our list is the Contour HD 1080p Helmet Camera. This is one of the early models of action cameras in the market. It was meant to provide outdoor enthusiasts a hands-free method of recording their adventures. It aced its purpose with the help of its solidly built, water-resistant body, 5 megapixel sensor, full HD recording, and its patented TRail system. It’s engineered to provide high-quality recordings under all kinds of conditions and while you’re on the move.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- High video resolution with options
- Easy to operate, even with one hand
- Can handle different conditions
- Expandable micro SD storage
- Quick and easy editing
- Different mounts available
Cons:
- Water can get in the gap between the rubber ring and lens protector and cause the lens to fog up
- On the expensive side
2. Tachyon 1080p BikerCam Motorcycle Camera System
While the Tachyon 1080p BikerCam Motorcycle Camera System is built specifically for mounting on motorbikes, it can also be easily repurposed as a firefighter helmet cam.
With its patented multi-directional mounting, you can find a way to affix it to your helmet without a fuss. It’s also quite an affordable pick, making it an attractive option for many.
This item is also packed with great features that makes it a handy recording device for all kinds of conditions. With its rainproof cover, it can definitely take on the conditions that firefighters often find themselves in.
Pros:
- Works well in low light conditions
- Automatically starts recording upon ignition and shuts off when engine is stopped
- Multi-directional mounting
- High-definition video and audio recording
- Long battery life
- Records while charging
- Expandable storage
- Friendly price tag
Cons:
- Some had issues with the micro SD slot
3. Fire Cam 1080p Helmet Camera (US)
If you want a camera that’s made specifically for firefighters, then check out the Fire Cam 1080p Helmet Camera. This item is heat-proof and can handle up to 900F for short periods of time and is water resistant and can be submerged up to 33ft. This guarantees that it can handle the conditions that firefighters work in from time to time.
Alongside its sturdy build, this product also doesn’t skimp on performance. Users can choose from two resolutions: 1080p at 30 fps or 720p at 60 fps. It also has a wide angle view that doesn’t get distorted so high picture quality is guaranteed.
Pros:
- Made specifically for firefighters
- Can handle temperatures up to 900F for short periods
- Different mounts available
- Many accessories included (2 rechargeable batteries, micro SD card, wall charger, and mount)
- Expandable storage
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Picture is not very crisp in low light conditions
4. HD Metal Firefighter Water Proof Mini Metal Camera 120 Degrees Wide Angle + Blackjack Helmet Mount
Another option for a cam that is specifically made for firefighters is the Stuntcams HD Metal Firefighter Water Proof Mini Metal Camera.
This camera is made with a fireproof metal alloy shell so you can count on it to withstand high temperatures without melting or getting damaged. It’s also weather and shock resistant, ensuring that it can handle various conditions.
Its video recording options are noteworthy, too. It films in 1280×720 resolution at 30 fps, guaranteeing crisp pictures. You can also choose from wide or narrow angle varieties to better suit your recording needs.
Pros:
- Expandable micro SD storage up to 32 gb
- Solid construction will keep it in top shape under any condition
- Fire-proof metal shell is also weather and shock resistant
- Affordable price tag
- Comes with a free mount
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Some experienced issues with the unit shutting off
- Not for low light conditions
5. Fire Cam MINI1080 Helmet Camera (US)
For something more compact, check out the Fire Cam Mini 1080 Helmet Camera. As its name suggests, this is a smaller option to the other Fire Cam product listed above, offering more portability and easier wearing. It’s also noted for its wifi connectivity, allowing users to access the settings of the camera and get a live view of its footage using an app.
Pros:
- Compact size
- Shares all of the same features as the other Fire Cam model listed above
- Made specifically for firefighters
- Can withstand high temperatures
- Water-resistant up to 33 ft
- Wi-fi connectivity simplifies the way you can access the camera’s settings
Cons:
- Camera and phone needs to be near each other for app live viewing
6. Fire Cam 4K WiFi 32GB (US)
Want to take things up a notch for your helmet camera? The Fire Cam 4K WiFi 32GB is an upgrade of the other Fire Cam products mentioned above, so if you liked those but want a more cutting-edge pick, this might do the trick.
What gives this product an edge over the other Fire Cam models? Aside from its WiFi connectivity that makes its settings easier to tweak, it’s also equipped with a Sony lens which promises top-notch quality and reliability.
Pros:
- HD resolution picture (1080@60 fps)
- Made specifically for firefighters
- Great in low-light conditions
- WiFi connectivity makes it easier to use
- Heat and waterproof
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- Some experience app issues
7. HD Metal Firefighter Helmet Fire Proof 120 Degree Wide Angle Water Resistant Camera
Last but not least is the Stuntcams HD Metal Firefighter Helmet Fire Proof Camera.
Housed in a fireproof material, it promises to survive high-temperature and wet conditions. It can also record high-resolution audio and video, making it a reliable video device for many firefighters.
Pros:
- Plug and play design will let you view videos on a computer easily
- High-quality construction
- Will record even while charging
- Easy to set up
Cons:
- Some experienced issues with the waterproofing
Buyers Guide: What to Look in Firefighter Helmet Cameras
Since you’ll be spending hard-earned money on these devices, you naturally want to make sure that you’ll get a reliable product that’s worth the investment. To help you get great results, take a close look at these features:
Picture and Video Quality
Make sure that the picture and video quality are true to its advertisement. Nowadays, the standard is 720 or 1080p, so look for products that offer such. It should also be able to cancel out noise for its audio and handle low light conditions well.
Related Article: Smoke Detector Camera with Audio
Ease of Use
To ensure the convenient use of your helmet cam, you should also take a look at how easy to use a product can be. To do this, look for the following features:
- Use of USB cable for battery charging
- Easy access controls
- Multiple mounting options and directions
Value for Money
These cameras are not exactly cheap, so you might want to make sure to get the most out of your purchase. Look for quality, clear pictures, and reliable features.
Timestamps
Timestamps can always come handy for videos that are meant to be used later so most cameras come with them. However, some will let you remove the timestamps giving you more flexibility in their use.
Battery life
The longer the battery life, the more footage you can get without the need to plug the device in. However, some items will let you record while charging, so that’s a great plus.
WiFi Connectivity
This is a great plus if you want to get more out of your purchase. However, cameras with such a feature can be more expensive, so make sure to weigh your options first.
Build
You should never compromise the quality of the build of your firefighter helmet cam because this item should be capable of withstanding extreme situations.
Accessories
Make sure to look at the attachments and accessories that a camera comes with. Compatibility with high-quality picks like the Nightstick NS-HMC1 Multi-Angle Helmet Mount, Black is always a plus.
FAQs
Can you use action cams as a firefighter helmet camera?
Action cams that are built to withstand high temperatures and are waterproof tend to be used as firefighter helmet cameras by some.
What is the best firefighter helmet camera?
While there are tons of options available, most pros find that the ones made specifically for firefighters are the best picks.
Conclusion
Like with other devices, finding the best firefighter helmet cameras can be a challenge.
However, once you know what you’re looking for and what you need in such a device, you can be sure to find your match with some careful search.
We’re certain our quick guide on firefighter helmet camera reviews is helpful in your search. So keep our tips and recommendations in mind.