Simulation Technology in Firefighter Training: Entering Enclosed Spaces

The use of various technologies is an essential part of the modern era. The main objective of firefighters is to provide quick and efficient assistance to people in danger and to protect their property. Despite the availability of modern emergency equipment, certain emergencies can be exceptionally challenging, underscoring the continued significance of individual firefighter performance. The XVR Simulation is a software tool for firefighter vocational training, providing a safe, virtual space for practicing decision-making procedures in emergency events. This technology finds its application not only in the rescue sector, but also in the field of occupational safety and industry. This paper describes the integration of virtual training into newly recruited firefighters preparing in the area of entering enclosed spaces and investigates its benefits. Compared are the outcomes of two groups of students in real training session. Group A, which participated in simulations on XVR before the real training, achieved better results. Comparing the medians of both groups, there is a 1.5-point difference on a 10-point scale. The procedure described in this paper can be used as a model to integrate simulation technology to desired topic within the scope of vocational training. Positive feedback and better results of the simulation group before real training reinforce the importance of this theme.