“New artificial intelligence (AI) fire-sensing cameras operated by Arizona Public Service (APS) are proactively searching 24/7 for early signs of wildfires in targeted, high fire-risk areas. They alert APS fire mitigation experts and fire dispatch centers when smoke and heat traces are detected. As part of its comprehensive wildfire mitigation strategy, APS is enhancing collaboration with firefighters and providing fire dispatch centers access to live camera feeds and fire detection information…
The new technology from Pano AI is helping mitigate wildfire risk through a variety of features, including:
- More than 30 APS AI cameras mounted in elevated locations across Flagstaff, Payson, Prescott, Sedona, north Phoenix and southeastern Arizona by this summer.
- Smart AI that evaluates and detects fire smoke optimally within a 10-mile range and studies the way smoke looks to prevent mistaking other images like fog or dust as signs of wildfire.
- Connected satellite data that produces information on the size and location of the fire and 24/7 live stream using ultra-high-definition cameras with 360-degree views that can zoom in on a specific location…
Recent examples of AZ wildfire detection through the lens of AI
December 2024:
- The Horton Fire, caused by human activity, ignited in the Tonto National Forest during a time of year when wildfire risk is typically low.
- An AI camera in Payson notified APS fire mitigation specialists of the smoke.
- APS fire mitigation specialists worked with first responders and because of weather conditions and APS’s previous removal of overgrown and unwanted brush, firefighters were able to use power line corridors as fire breaks to help keep flames from spreading.
- Firefighters used the cameras to help monitor the fire’s growth overnight.
February 2025:
- An AI camera in the Prescott National Forest detected smoke from the Brady Fire when it was less than one acre in size.
- Installed on a communication tower, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, the camera system immediately notified APS and the forest’s dispatch center.
- Firefighters’ swift and tactical response helped contain the fire’s spread and, due to the fire’s distance from power lines and the camera’s early detection of smoke, the fire did not impact APS equipment or service to customers.”
From Arizona Public Service.