Emergency communications network specialist, Airwave Solutions Australia, is proud to have been appointed by FireWatch Australia in the Federal Government-funded trial of bushfire-detection technology. As the FireWatch implementation partner, Airwave has deployed the proven FireWatch bushfire-detection system and the underlying communications network in the designated trial areas of the Otway Ranges in Victoria and Tumut, New South Wales.
“Airwave is delighted to support the trial of this potentially life-saving technology,” said Airwave Solutions Australia Chief Executive Officer, Malcolm Keys. “This project aligns with our core competency, which is the design, implementation and operation of public safety communications networks. Here, we are committed to using best-of-breed technology to provide highly secure and reliable communication systems to safeguard Australian lives.”
Each of the two FireWatch bushfire-detection trial networks comprises a number of sophisticated sensors with secure communications connectivity to regional, manned control centres. The FireWatch network is installed at four Victorian sites in the Otway Ranges and two NSW sites in the Tumut area. The FireWatch Control Centre is located in Burwood, Victoria with subsidiary systems in Colac, Victoria, and Tumut in NSW.
Founded on aerospace technology developed for NASA’s Mars Pathfinder mission, the FireWatch system incorporates an optical sensor, which boasts enhanced spectral sensitivity with near-infrared (NIR)-sensing capabilities. This permits detection across a wide range of visible light wavelength (480 to 1200nm) day or night—far superior to that of the human eye (400 to 750nm). Furthermore, the sensor’s extremely high grey-scale resolution enables it to distinguish between over 16,000 shades of grey—critical functionality for detecting first signs of smoke and differentiating between smoke, cloud and dust.
In operation, each FireWatch camera rotates through 360 degrees every 4-8 minutes, detecting smoke at distances of up to 40km. Once smoke or fire is detected an alarm with a corresponding image is transmitted to the relevant control room via the Airwave-built communications network. Here, the image is rapidly assessed and the resultant information disseminated to the fire agencies, allowing them to commence their fire suppression activities.
The FireWatch detection system is being trialled as part of a $3 million-Federal Government initiative. Importantly, similar detection networks based on FireWatch technology have produced impressive results overseas. FireWatch has been operating in Germany for eight years and has lead to a reduction in area burned by over 90 per cent.
“The FireWatch technology eclipses the alternative technologies on trial,” said Keys. “Its day/night functionality, superior sensing capabilities and proven track record make it a compelling solution. All this, paired with our resilient communications network provides a powerful tool for the early detection of smoke and fire, and the preservation of Australian lives, property and native bushland.”
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