On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) celebrated National Preparedness Month by announcing the delivery and phased implementation of wildland fire sensors throughout Colorado.
S&T said 20 wildfire detection and four wind sensors are being delivered to Jefferson County, Colorado and are expected to be tested this winter. Currently, there are two wildfire detection sensors installed in Boulder County, officials said. Another 100 sensors are expected to be delivered to Gilpin County in the coming months.
The technology aims to reduce the impact of wildfires on communities while protecting first responders and saving lives, officials said.
“Operationalizing technologies is at the core of S&T’s work, and this National Preparedness Month, we are proud to pilot these sensors to help Colorado prevent and mitigate against future wildfires,” Dr. Dimitri Kusnezov, DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology, said. “We have a chance to get ahead of extreme weather in our country with these AI-based sensors that work 24/7 to quickly detect an initial wildfire blaze, giving first responders as much advanced warning as possible. Through investments in research, development, and innovation, S&T develops groundbreaking tools like these sensors to support DHS security missions and first responders.”
Officials said Colorado is the latest state to receive the sensors for testing and evaluation. Already, sensors have been successfully deployed in Hawaii and California. Tennessee is also scheduled to receive sensors soon, S&T said.
“As fire risks continue to evolve across our region, we’re excited to work with S&T on innovative solutions to help our first responders with efficiency and their own safety in the field,” Mike Chard, Director, Office of Disaster Management for City of Boulder & Boulder County.