Grass fire. (Photo courtesy of Kelowna Fire Department)

By Pete McIntyre

SenseNet system

New wildfire detection system gets tested in Vernon

Dec 11, 2023 | 1:00 PM

The City of Vernon will be testing a new wildland fire detection system this week, which some residents may notice.

The city says several small fires are scheduled along Eastside Road as part of the SenseNet system.

“The City of Vernon was selected for at-scale testing of this emergent technology in 2022,” a city news release stated. “Since this time many sensors, gateways and cameras have been installed throughout Vernon’s higher risk areas to provide a web of early fire detection. A key advantage of the system is its ability to share information with others using the same system, expanding its capacity. (City of Vernon)

On Thursday, Dec. 14 and Friday, Dec. 15, residents may see smoke from small test fires in the Eastside Road area, which will be about one metre by one metre in size. The testing is being conducted in collaboration with SenseNet, Rider Ventures and Vernon Fire Rescue Services. The schedule may change due to weather and site conditions.

Fire Chief David Lind said early detection is a powerful tool in managing fires.

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“When we get fuel mitigation and early detection right, and have an adequate response, the fires typically go out while they are still manageable. Early detection is also key for moving people out of the way when fast moving fires do occur. These tests will provide for system validation, in a controlled setting, and for fine tuning as needed,” Lind said.

SenseNet CEO Hamed Noori is thanking the city, especially Chief Lind and the FireSmart coordinator, for trying-out new technologies and consistently staying ahead of the curve.

“In the face of the severe wildfires impacting Canada, their proactive measures are essential in effectively protecting our communities,” Noori said. “Our technology is a tool; the real champions are the fire departments who utilize these tools to enhance their capabilities in this new era of increasingly severe wildfires.”

Noori added by considering the innovative approach, Vernon Fire Rescue stands out as one of the most forward-thinking departments in Canada.

“We are hopeful that our technology can make their critical job of keeping the community safe a little easier,” the CEO stated.