Groundbreaking AI technology is helping detect wildfires and combat them across California.
First responders statewide are getting help from nearly 1,300 360-degree cameras that monitor wildfires and natural disasters in real time. The technology processes camera data to help pinpoint the exact coordinates of an emerging wildfire and send that information directly to first responders.
CAL FIRE intelligence specialist Suzann Leininger said the system allows crews to identify fires before someone reports them.
“So before the 911 call would have to come in and someone’s reporting a fire, we were more reactive before. Where now, we could actually get a notification from AI before the 911 call comes in,” Leininger said.
The technology comes as some lawmakers and tech companies call for slowing AI development because of security and safety concerns.
However, supporters of AI say the technology is already making a difference by helping first responders respond to emergencies more quickly.
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