AI-powered smoke detector cameras tested to spot bushfires before they spread out of control in WA first

Artificial intelligence-powered smoke detector cameras are being tested as a tool to spot potentially deadly bushfires before they spread out of control. A WA-first trial of the cameras will be rolled out in the South West at four communication towers near West Manjimup, Kirup, South Busselton and Nannup. A Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokesman said the trial would test the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in detecting early smoke generated by bushfires in the South West. If effective, it is possible the cameras will be tested in other areas of the State. The Department has released a tender calling for an organisation who could install the technology. “The Parks and Wildlife Service manages a bushfire detection system consisting of a fleet of spotter aircraft and a network of fire lookout towers in the south west of Western Australia,” a spokesman said. “This project plans to trial the effectiveness of the cameras to detect smoke using artificial intelligence in a range of circumstances such as haze, low cloud, dust and high winds, when other detection systems may either be grounded, between circuit flights or in inclement weather. “As the cameras will operate 24/7, it will also provide the opportunity to assess overnight bushfire detection when spotter aircraft and fire lookout towers are not operating. “The effectiveness of camera technology is being assessed to complement the successful existing detection aircraft and lookout towers to provide a more comprehensive bushfire detection system for the south west of Western Australia.” The trial, run in conjunction with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and the Forest Products Commission. It was funded by a $166,500 grant from the State Emergency Management Committee’s Disaster Ready Fund. WA has experienced several devastating bushfires in recent years. In January, four homes were destroyed when a blaze ripped through Arthur River. In 2023, 18 homes were lost in a fast-moving bushfire in Wanneroo. The following month, 57 homes and buildings were destroyed in a blaze in Parkerville.