One of the most advanced automated forest fire detection systems in the world is ForestWatch® – developed by South African based technology firm, Envirovision Solutions.
Combining programmable cameras and image processing software, the computerised ForestWatch® system uses a mathematical algorithm to automatically detect changes in the landscape that may be smoke. When the system identifies smoke, it alerts the human operator at the control centre. The operator can then use the system controls and tools to examine the problem area more closely and dispatch a response crew immediately if necessary.
ForestWatch® is a powerful decision support tool and early warning system that has been used with great success by governments and forestry industries around the world for over a decade – saving lives, property and resources.
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Mounted camera
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ForestWatch Control room
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Ordinary camera view
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View of fires detected
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ForestWatch® benefits:
- Significantly reduces time between fire ignition and its discovery
- Greatly increases lookouts’ situational awareness while reducing staff costs
- Geo-referencing pinpoints fire location at a mouse-click, enabling rapid, efficient deployment of resources
- Night enabled for 24/7 asset protection
- Smart software learns to reduce the problem of false alarms
- Multi-functional system can also be used to combat arson, poaching and theft
- Record keeping function for post-event analysis
- Highly customisable according to needs and budget
Along with demo systems across the globe, ForestWatch® is currently operational in these locations:
- Canada, Alberta
- Greece, Athens
- Slovakia, Zvolen
- South Africa : Highveld
Kwambonambi
Lions River
Richmond
Sabie
- USA, Oregon