WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Waco firefighters are among the first in the nation to test new augmented reality technology to help them navigate pitch-black, smoke-filled rooms.

A hands-free, helmet-mounted system created by Qwake Technologies combines thermal imaging with augmented reality, projecting outlines of walls, objects, and heat signals directly onto a heads-up display inside the firefighter's mask.

The Waco Fire Department is the second in Texas and one of only 20 departments nationwide to receive this technology first.