The warmer months are here, and with them comes an increased risk of bushfire. Rural and remote communities already have that time-honoured bushfire early warning system in place: that is, farmers, emergency services and neighbours keeping an eye on the horizon for smoke. But smart bushfire detection systems in Australia can provide a new, reliable level of defence when bushfire risks are present
The benefits of a tech-based bushfire early warning system
Minutes and moments matter when a bushfire is imminent, particularly as these fires can move so rapidly. Adequate warning allows people to assess the situation and either evacuate or stay and defend their property or shelter in placer. A smart bushfire early warning system uses technology to warn people to danger quickly – perhaps well before they’ve sensed the danger themselves. In rural and remote areas where people may be disconnected from power, the right system will be able to warn people audibly and visually in the immediate vicinity.
How does a smart bushfire early warning system work?
Spectur’s bushfire early warning system consists of a high-resolution camera, loudspeaker, bright warning lights and the option of a VoIP phone and LED message display. This solar-powered system can be installed in rural and remote locations and runs off its battery in low-light conditions. When installed somewhere with 3G or 4G reception, the footage can be remotely viewed in real time and the site’s conditions can be assessed from afar. Using Spectur’s advanced signal amplification systems, these platforms remain connected to the internet long after your phone is out of range.
Let’s say a bushfire is approaching a remote town. Your emergency service team might be notified of the fire, or you might have smoke or temperature sensors integrated with your Spectur system via edge or cloud connection.
In either case, people in the immediate vicinity will be warned of the danger via:
- Bright flashing lights
- A pre-recorded spoken message giving instructions
- A customisable message showing on the LED display
- Two-way live communication with remote services via the VoIP phone.
The camera system allows remote authorities to observe conditions and whether people are present. Two-way communication can also give emergency services the benefit of gaining more information from directly on the ground, so they can dispatch resources efficiently. These systems can even be configured with a “smart box” containing first aid supplies, water, defibrillator, etc.
