CalFire, the California state fire agency, is gearing up for the upcoming summer fire season with a powerful new tool: artificial intelligence (AI) technology. By combining high-tech cameras with advanced AI software, CalFire aims to detect smoke and fires at a much faster rate than ever before.
In the past, humans in fire lookout towers were responsible for spotting and reporting fires. However, with the introduction of AI technology, this task can now be accomplished by software that is capable of identifying potential problems and promptly alerting humans in command centers.
We have fire captains in our command centers that are making those decisions prior to anybody arriving, explains CalFire Unit Chief Mike Marcucci. This means that decisions regarding the necessary resources, such as aircraft, ground equipment, hand crews, and bulldozers, can be made swiftly, helping to combat fires more efficiently.
CalFire has installed over 1,000 cameras across various locations in California. These cameras are mounted on different platforms and offer a range of capabilities including a 360-degree view, night vision, and even the ability to zoom out to great distances. The images captured by these cameras are crisp and detailed, allowing for a comprehensive view of the surrounding area.
One of the testing sites for this innovative technology is the Napa region. Through continuous training, the AI programs are being taught to differentiate between actual fires and other forms of smoke or disturbances. So we can teach the AI that this was a fire, that wasn’t a fire, states Marcucci. As time goes on, the technology is becoming increasingly adept and accurate, providing valuable support to fire response teams.
CalFire believes that this new AI technology could significantly improve firefighting efforts by enabling faster fire detection and, ideally, preventing them from escalating into massive firestorms. However, there have been some criticisms of AI technology. Marcucci emphasizes that it is nothing but a benefit to Californian communities living in fire-prone areas.
Sometimes it gets a little criticized, the AI technology does, admits Marcucci. This is nothing but a benefit to the community of California, to our residents here that truly live in a fire environment.
By harnessing the power of AI, CalFire aims to enhance its capacity to quickly identify and combat fires. With the increasing threat of wildfires in California, this technology could prove to be a crucial tool in protecting lives and properties. As the AI continues to evolve and improve, it may play an even more significant role in firefighting efforts in the future.
