West Yorkshire is experiencing a much more concerning spike in wildfires. In turn, local governments are urgently looking for cutting-edge technologies to support their firefighters and firefighting efforts. The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) is increasing its use of all-terrain vehicles to respond to these fires. In addition, they’re using novel mapping tools and weather forecasting applications to get better models of fire behavior.
Over the past several years, the West has been devastated by intensifying wildfires. This spike has understandably alarmed local officials and firefighting teams. The WYFRS has adopted lighter-weight personal protective equipment. This specialized gear is specifically intended to enhance response capabilities during extended operations in harsh conditions. Together these measures represent a positive step toward the safety and needs of our firefighters as they continue to battle the increasing threat of wildfires.
Dr. Kamran Mahroof, a researcher involved in wildfire management studies, noted the global implications of this phenomenon, stating, “Wildfires are a global phenomenon and have been increasing in frequency and intensity in recent years.” His remarks highlight the need for communities such as his native West Yorkshire to act with the utmost urgency on these growing, self-inflicted environmental challenges.
A research team from the University of Bradford is currently spearheading an innovative trial to develop a robotic dog – aerial drone system hybrid. This mighty pair will save lives by dramatically enhancing situational awareness for wildfire first responders. The team explains, “In the Greek pilot of SNS-JU 6G-VERSUS, we’re developing a combined robotic dog and aerial drone system that boosts situational awareness for first responders during wildfires.”
Artificial intelligence is at the very core of this technology. The system leverages deep learning-based AI to analyze valuable camera feeds in real-time. With 6G links relaying the data, it gets teams to the people most at risk more quickly, allowing them to direct resources to where they’re needed the most. “By applying AI to interpret real-time camera feeds and using 6G links to relay the data, we can help teams quickly identify people at risk and deploy resources where they’re needed most, all while keeping responders safe,” the team stated.
The WYFRS is well aware of the positive impact this new technology can have. They haven’t really folded it into their strategies to fight fire yet. A spokesperson for the service told us they were unfamiliar with this specific technology. What emerged was a remarkable desire to reach out and get more engaged with the University of Bradford team through further conversations.
Dr. Mahroof emphasized the importance of rapid detection in wildfire management, saying, “The whole idea for us is to identify wildfires as soon as possible.” WYFRS are committed to seeking more creative solutions. They are deeply committed to addressing the increasing incidence and severity of wildfires that destroy their communities.