Smiths Detection’s Portable Gas and Vapor Detector Acquired by Yonkers Fire Department for Pope’s Recent Visit

Danbury, CT, 14 May 2008 - Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announced that its Hazardous Gas and Vapor Identifier, or HGVI™, was acquired by the Yonkers Fire Department in preparation for the recent visit of Pope Benedict XVI. The HGVI system enabled the Yonkers Emergency Response Team to be fully prepared to ensure a safe environment for his highly publicized arrival against any unknown vapors or gases.

Launched one year ago, the Smiths Detection HGVI is already recognized as a key instrument in the identification of unknown toxic chemicals, chemical warfare agents and gamma radiation by emergency responders around the world. It uses multiple sensors to determine unknown vapors and gases and is powered by Smiths Detection’s unique H-Fusion™ (Hazard-Fusion) decision enhancement software, which has revolutionized how accurately and quickly harmful substances can be identified.
Yonkers Fire Department Chief William Fitzpatrick said: “Being the first team on the scene means you need to have the right tools for the job. It was important that the department be able to protect both the Pope and the public if something came up. Adding the HGVI to our tool kit gave us all peace of mind.”

Designed by Smiths Detection in conjunction with emergency response teams, the HGVI reduces false positives and improves on-scene analytical accuracy by looking at a chemical with a versatile sensor technology.  The Yonkers Fire Department is one of several companies who plan to use the device as both a response and screening instrument to ensure public safety.
Bob Bohn, Director of Sales and Marketing, Smiths Detection, said: “The reliability and accuracy of the HGVI at identifying potentially dangerous gases and vapors makes for an ideal addition to any emergency responders tool kit.”

Smiths Detection’s Emergency Responder Tools
The HGVI expands Smiths Detection’s product line of portable Emergency Responder solutions used by military and HazMat teams globally including: the HazMatID™, GasID™, LCD-FR™ and RespondeR RCI™. Smiths Detection’s emergency responder solutions provide an unparalleled level of detection and identification of unknown substances which includes: toxic industrial chemicals, suspicious white powders, illicit drugs, nerve and blister agents, weapons of mass destruction, volatile organic compounds, chemical warfare agents, explosives, pesticides, and flammables and non-flammables. 

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About Smiths Detection
Smiths Detection is part of the global technology business Smiths Group. It offers advanced integrated security solutions for customers in civil and military markets worldwide and is a leading technology developer and manufacturer of sensors that detect and identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons, and contraband. Its advanced technology security solutions also include Smiths Heimann x-ray imaging systems, millimeter-wave technology and a specialist software supply business for the management of large sensor and video surveillance networks. Separate business units focus on related products for the life sciences, and food manufacturing industries. For more information visit www.smithsdetection.com

About Smiths Group
Smiths is a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange. A world leader in the practical application of advanced technologies, Smiths Group delivers products and services for the threat & contraband detection, medical devices, energy and communications markets worldwide. Our products and services make the world safer, healthier and more productive. Smiths Group employs more than 20,000 people in over 50 countries. For more information visit www.smiths.com

Media Contacts:

David Olsen
Coltrin & Associates for Smiths Detection
212-221-1616 ext. 118
David_Olsen@Coltrin.com

Dana Knox-Gower
Smiths Detection
203-207-9700 ext. 26
Dana.Gower@SmithsDetection.com