Natick firefighters has upgraded its thermal imaging cameras thanks to a $25,000 grant through the state’s Department of Fire Services.

Such equipment enables firefighters to see areas of heat that they couldn’t perceive with the naked eye, and detect people and animals in smoky or burning environments.

“We have had them for many years. They are getting beyond their life expectancy and simply need replacing,” Chief Michael Lentini says. “The technology does get better every model year. So we have that advantage with this grant opportunity.”

More than 300 fire departments across the state received a total of $5 million in grants, with a maximum amount per community based on population.