A flood isn’t just water. It’s noise, darkness, panic, a moving car you can’t predict, and a victim who might fight the person trying to help. That’s why we brought on Barton Bollfrass, a Navy EOD diver turned technologist, who builds training environments and tools that mirror the chaos without the body count. Barton walks us through Fathom Tanks, the physical simulator that puts first responders into rushing water around real vehicles, with reluctant “victims,” lightning, sirens, and the stress that makes or breaks decisions. When teams can fail safely and reset in seconds, they learn what matters: how to move, how to communicate, and how to bring everyone home.
We also dive into the gear side of the job. Barton’s RoboRounds lab takes on hard problems with simple ideas: break complex automotive glass at standoff using ultra-hard ceramics so officers create an opening without closing distance; use compact “tangler” rounds to snag drone rotors over yards of airspace, avoiding explosives and collateral damage; and blind hostile sensors with LIDAR-disrupting payloads that smear and scramble optics without destroying property. These tools pair with non-lethal platforms like PepperBall to expand options between talking and force, giving responders space and time when scenes turn volatile.
The throughline is practical innovation for public safety. Most flood drownings involve vehicles, yet few responders get live, realistic reps on submerged cars. Drones smuggle contraband and scout borders, but low-risk defenses are scarce. Cameras and robots multiply watchful eyes, yet reversible ways to neutralize them are rare. Barton’s approach closes those gaps with stress-realistic training and precise, purpose-built technology. Listen to hear how these systems work, the data behind their design, and the stories from teams who say their rescues felt exactly like the tank.
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