Fifty sensors that use artificial intelligence to assist detect wildfires have been installed across parts of the peninsula, the results of a partnership between the Saratoga-based FireProtected Council, Stanford University and other local agencies.
The sensors were installed in wilderness areas on the urban-wilderness interface – the space between wildlife and human habitation – in Woodside, Portola Valley and unincorporated parts of San Mateo County. The sensors can warn first responders of emerging fires in real time and track the spread of fireplace and smoke along with air quality.
Although the Peninsula is the newest region to put in AI-powered sensors, other parts of the Bay Area are already using them. Parts of Santa Clara County and Oakland installed the sensors last yr.
The sensors are solar powered and use artificial intelligence to research gas, particles and warmth to assist detect fires.
“Wildfires know no borders,” Palo Alto Fire Chief Geo Blackshire said in a news release. “Our community risk reduction efforts are more effective when we work with neighboring agencies to keep communities safe.”
“Early detection is critical to saving lives and property and protecting the environment from the dangers of wildfires.”
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