Since January of this year, there have been over 59,000 wildfires, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. For comparison, the 10-year average is 48,193 wildfires.
As wildfire risk continues to rise, a German startup thinks it can help detect wildfires before they spread out of control. Dryad Networks specializes in creating Internet of Things (IoT) devices and networks to support these front-line technologies.
One such Dryad Networks device, known as the Silvanet Wildfire Sensor, may hold the key to pinpointing the source of wildfires.
How the Silvanet Network Works
Silvanet Wildfire Sensors are solar-powered sensors designed to detect fires within the first 60 minutes of ignition and even during the "smoldering” phase. They measure temperature, air pressure, humidity, and other variables to detect fires faster than current solutions.
The Dryad sensors are IoT devices that are connected to an internet network. These interconnected devices relay information to the network, which is then passed down to local and state officials so that they can take action in the event of a fire.
What These IoT Devices Could Mean for the Future
If Dryad’s devices are successfully deployed, the system could revolutionize woodland firefighting. Many wildfires aren’t detected until they are already out of control. As such, wildland firefighters have to focus on fire containment, rather than extinguishing the blaze.
Dryad Networks’ Silvanet sensors could alert wildland firefighters earlier when fires are much more manageable. In turn, firefighters can respond faster and successfully extinguish fires before they cause significant damage.
If Dryad’s technology is proven viable, it will undoubtedly be adopted on a broad scale, especially in high-risk areas. The devices have the potential to revolutionize wildland firefighting and prevent millions in property damage every single year.
