West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is using these advanced technologies to improve its approach to tackling wildfires. The service utilizes Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and specialized mapping software. It uses weather forecasting programs to predict fire behavior and more efficiently fight wildfires. These innovations are especially well-timed during this era of ever-worsening, more frequent, and intense wildfire risk.
For example, the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is currently focused on improving its operational productivity. To do this, they’re getting on board with new, lighter weight PPE. These equipment upgrades are meant to give firefighters the breathing protection they need during longer operations, keeping them safe while they face dangerous chemical hazards.
The fire service has partnered with the University of Bradford to improve ways of detecting wildfires. This partnership will follow on from the university’s success in obtaining funding from the EU’s Horizon Innovation Action programme. A research team from the university is conducting studies on how artificial intelligence can help address global challenges, including wildfire management.
Dr. Kamran Mahroof, a vital member of the University of Bradford team, underlined the need for immediate action to improve wildfire response. He said, “Wildfires are a global phenomenon, and their frequency and intensity have been increasing in recent years.” His team plans to run a pilot test in Greece next year as part of the 6G-VERSUS research project, an EU-funded initiative focused on 6G technology trials.
The project plans to use cutting edge technologies, like drones and robotic dogs, to sniff out the earliest signs of wildfires. Dr. Mahroof stressed that they are using high-end technologies such as 6G, drones and even robotic dogs. These innovations assist them in spotting areas most likely to spark fires and enable rapid deployment of preventative measures.
At a recent event in Birmingham showcasing how AI can combat global challenges, Dr. Mahroof expressed pride in his team’s work. He added, “We are extremely proud to be leading the world in research tackling this urgent worldwide issue.”
Despite these advancements, the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service remains unaware of the specific technologies utilized by the University of Bradford team. All signs point to significant interest from them when it comes to learning more about these promising, creative solutions to infrastructure needs.