The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing the way that fire and emergency services organizations monitor and respond to emergencies. By integrating IoT and information systems (IS)—systems that collect, process, store and distribute information—into devices, such as smoke alarms, motion sensors and cameras, and existing IS, firefighters are better able to detect potential hazards in real time. When an emergency is detected, IoT devices via IS can trigger alerts to inform firefighters of the danger before it becomes a full-blown fire.
This use of IoT technology has tremendous potential for improving safety in both residential and commercial settings. For instance, with remotely monitored smoke alarms that instantly alert nearby fire crews when a hazard is detected, response times to fires can be reduced drastically. Additionally, by using data from connected sensors that are placed throughout a building, firefighters can assess more accurately the structural integrity of a burning building and develop an effective response plan.
The use of IoT technology and IS platforms also provides valuable data that can be used to improve training, equipment and tactics.
Immense potential
The future of IoT and IS in fire and emergency services organizations is likely to be characterized by increased automation, integration and intelligence. Here are some potential developments:
Real-time Monitoring and Alerts. IoT devices can be used to monitor buildings and detect potential fire hazards in real time. When an emergency is detected, the IoT devices can trigger alerts to first responders and central command centers automatically. This enables a faster response time, and the early detection of potential fire hazards can help to prevent disasters before they occur.
Predictive Maintenance. IoT devices can be used to monitor fire equipment and vehicles to detect potential issues and schedule maintenance proactively. This can help to reduce apparatus downtime and ensure that equipment is in good condition when it’s needed. Predictive maintenance can help fire and emergency services organizations save time and money by avoiding unexpected breakdowns and repairs.
Situational Awareness. IoT devices can be used to gather real-time data from various sources, such as weather sensors, traffic cameras and social media. These data can be integrated into IS to provide first responders with a more comprehensive view of the situation and to help them to make informed decisions. Thus, the integration of data can help to improve situational awareness and enable faster decision-making.
Incident Response Optimization. IS can be used to track the location of first responders and vehicles in real time, to optimize routes and to manage resources more efficiently. This can help to reduce response times and improve overall incident response. Real-time tracking of first responders and vehicles can help fire and emergency services organizations to allocate resources more effectively and respond to emergencies more efficiently.
Smart Buildings. IoT devices will be used to monitor and control fire hazards in “smart” buildings, which enables more precise and targeted response by emergency services. For example, sensors could detect the location and intensity of a fire, to allow firefighters to focus on the areas that are most affected. This could help to prevent damage to other parts of the building and reduce the risk of injuries to firefighters and civilians.
Artificial Intelligence (AI). Machine learning algorithms could be used to analyze data from IoT devices and IS, which would enable predictive maintenance and real-time decision-making. This could include predicting equipment failure or identifying potential hazards in real time. AI also could be used to improve resource allocation and optimize incident response.
Response revolutionized
With better information and faster response times, fire service organizations can better protect their community and save lives.
As fire and emergency services professionals, it’s vital to adapt response models to meet the demands of current and future needs of the stakeholders who are within your community. As such, understanding the effect of emerging technologies allows us to better predict the future landscape and to prepare for the associated challenges that await us.
With improved safety protocols, improved equipment and real-time data, IoT is set to revolutionize how departments respond to emergencies—for the better.
Eloy Vega
Eloy Vega has served communities as a first responder for more than 23 years. He is the fire chief and emergency management coordinator for Port Neches, TX. Vega’s career began with the Laredo, TX, Fire Department in 1999 in various capacities before ultimately serving as fire suppression district chief, fire training district chief, fire prevention and arson district chief, and fire district chief. While assigned to the Fire Administration Division, Vega was the special projects coordinator, strategic planner and public information officer (PIO). He earned a master’s degree in public administration from Sam Houston State University and is pursuing a Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University in fire and emergency management administration. Vega also earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from Texas A&M International University and an Associate of Science from Kilgore College. He also holds Master Certifications from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection to include Fire Officer IV, Hazardous Materials Incident Commander, Hazardous Materials Technician, Head of Suppression, Master Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Master Fire Fighter, Master Arson Investigator, Master Fire Inspector and Master Fire Investigator and as well as a Peace Officer License from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
