A Retrospective on ASPires: An Advanced System for the Prevention and Early Detection of Forest Fires

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the design and a prototypical implementation of an open system (ASPires) for the early prevention and early detection of forest fires. Forest fires cause huge, constantly increasing material damage and immaterial costs to humans, the environment and property. Among others, the use of new sensor and mobile communication technologies, the use of drones, data storage and analysis in a cloud, and direct connection with authorities reduces reaction time and thereby damage. Also, biodiversity is sustained in remote areas with rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. This has been tested and proven in 3 national parks in South East Europe.