Technology supporting faster, smarter bushfire response

The New South Wales Government reports that new technology is helping rural firefighters respond faster and safer by detecting fires earlier, improving situational awareness and strengthening communications in remote areas. AI-powered camera systems, thermal-imaging drones and expanded satellite connectivity are improving how emergency services detect, assess and manage bushfires.

In the past year alone, high-definition cameras have detected nearly 4000 fires, giving agencies critical early warnings and helping crews make faster and more informed decisions. The cameras have played a key role in a range of recent incidents across the state, including the early detection of fires prior to Triple Zero (000) calls in the Riverina late last year.

The drone capability of the RFS also continues to be expanded, with more than 50 trained pilots now positioned across the state. Equipped with thermal imaging, drones provide live vision of firegrounds and help identify hot spots after a main fire has passed. They can be rapidly deployed to emerging incidents or areas of concern, giving crews clearer, real-time picture of conditions and improving safety for firefighters on the ground.

This bush fire season has marked a major step forward in modernising frontline communications, building on recommendations from the NSW Bushfire Inquiry to strengthen the RFS fleet.

Vehicles are being upgraded with enhanced connectivity, including an on-going roll-out of satellite-enabled vehicle-as-a-node (VaaN) technology and thousands of trucks equipped with mobile data terminals to improve crews’ communication, connectivity and safety in remote and disaster-impacted areas.

Since the season began on 1 October, the RFS has responded to more than 8750 bushfires and grass fires, as broad areas of the state continue to experience drying conditions.

“Every minute matters when a fire starts. This upgraded technology helps fire crews arrive better informed and better prepared to tackle the fire and keep communities safe, especially in remote areas,” said Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib. “These improvements are helping create a more connected fireground where technology supports the people making critical decisions in rapidly changing conditions.”

“When fighting bush fires, the value of early detection and accurate situational awareness cannot be overstated,” said Commissioner of the RFS Trent Curtin. “The ability to access real-time imagery, particularly in remote and high-risk areas, helps us build a clearer picture of fire behaviour and conditions as incidents unfold.

“Projects like these ensure the RFS can continue to adapt and evolve in support of our volunteers and the communities they protect.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Daria Nipot