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Explore the BC forest service fire history, detection methods, trends, challenges, and future strategies from 1998 to 2002. Gain insights into the success of the program, detection failures, and upcoming technology advancements. Learn about the reduction in fires over the years and the importance of prevention measures. Discover the impact of detection methods like public reports, air patrols, and ground patrols. Understand the funding pressures and declining number of lookouts, paving the way for cost-effective and efficient solutions in fire detection and prevention. The future entails embracing new technologies for effective, affordable, low-maintenance, and user-friendly approaches.
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B.C. Forest Service FIRE DETECTION PROGRAM
FIRE HISTORY • 1998 To 2002 BC experienced 8440 fires. • Average of 1688/year. • Considerably reduced from 10 year average of 2500 to the 20 year average of 3000 fires. • Like to credit our detection & prevention program with the successes however more likely due to cooler weather pattern over last 3 years.
DETECTION HISTORY • 1998 - 2002 experienced 376 detection failures. • 4.5% of total fires reported. • Definition of detection failure • Time: ignition to detection lag > 40 minutes • Cost: cost + damage exceeds $20,000 • Size: at detection > 0.2 hectares
DETECTION METHODS • The public reports 30 to 35 % of all fires. • Current detection methods employed; • Lightning location system & air patrols. • Ground patrols during high risk & use periods. • Lookouts in isolated or high risk areas. • Industry watchers by regulation on active operations.
TRENDS • Funding pressures forcing a look at costs. • Number of lookouts (68) are in decline. • Currently conducting a new detection analysis as part of looking to the future. • Stricter prevention measures to reduce number of human caused fires. • Look at cost benefit analysis in new technology.
FUTURE Look forward to seeing what new technology is available at work shop. Future direction will have to be effective affordable low maintenance easy to work with