exci’s AI detects Bushfires in fire-prone Victoria

It’s no secret that bushfires are a devastating occurrence in many parts of the world, especially in Australia. In an effort to better protect citizens and their property, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is trialing exci’s AI-powered Bushfire Detection and Notification Technology in the fire-prone regions of Gippsland, Victoria. 

exci’s system is powered by advanced artificial intelligence (deep machine learning) that identifies the early signs of a bushfire from camera data and satellite data. This will allow for earlier warning notifications to be sent to the relevant responders. This trial will help DELWP understand how this technology can assist with bushfire prevention to protect the community, landowners, and infrastructure.

exci’s technology utilises machine learning algorithms to analyse incoming data streams from cameras and satellites. The system has been designed to recognise patterns associated with fires such as smoke plumes and areas of high heat intensity which may indicate an impending fire. Once detected, alerts are sent out via text message or email allowing for quicker response times from emergency services. 

Aside from providing more accurate early warnings for bushfires, exci’s technology also offers additional benefits such as improved monitoring capabilities for existing fires. By analysing camera footage on a continuous basis during an active fire event it is possible to track its spread more accurately than ever before. This could then lead to the more efficient allocation of resources by emergency services personnel as they strive to contain the fire quickly and safely. 

In the same year (2020), exci (formerly Fireball.International) received the highly competitive Accelerating Commercialisation Grant from the Australian Federal Government to roll out its AI-based bushfire detection system across Australia as well as overseas. “As Australians, we know all too well the human and financial cost of bushfires and this technology will be a game-changer in quickly detecting and extinguishing them,” former Minister Andrews said.

exci is the only AI-powered Early Bushfire Detection System that has been proven in large-scale deployments, monitoring 125 million acres across California with more than 1,000 cameras and over two million hectares of plantations and forestry in Australia.

In less than two years, exci has detected over 15,300 fires, significantly reducing the economic, social, and environmental impact on landowners and their communities. Check out following video: