General News
28 November, 2024
New AI technology to help protect communities
Stawell's Big Hill Lookout will become a home base, to test new AI (Atificial Intelligence) cameras that can help detect bushfires earlier by dectecting smoke and will operate 24 hours, seven days a week.
The trial is being undertaken by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) during this fire season and will assess the reliability and timeliness of smoke-detecting AI software.
"FFMVic welcomes advancements in technology that can help us detect bushfires early and keep communities safe," Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman AFSM said.
Early detection of bushfires is critical, as it provides the best opportunity to suppress bushfires before they impact communities, the environment and important assets like drinking water and energy infrastructure.
"This AI trial gives us the opportunity to explore how advancements in science and technology can be utilised to stay ahead of the threat of bushfires," Victorian minister for environment Steve Dimopoulos said.
The project is funded by the Albanese Government’s flagship Disaster Ready Fund with a $1.5 million investment from both the Albanese and Allan Governments.
“The early bushfire technology deployed in this trial could help authorities detect and suppress bushfires before they impact communities," Federal minister for emergency management, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister said.