From spark to suppression: An overview of wildfire monitoring, progression prediction, and extinguishing techniques

Abstract

Wildfires, a natural phenomenon predating human civilization, present severe threats to ecosystems, socio-economic factors, and human health. Due to climate change and human influence, the frequency and intensity of global wildfires are on the rise, which emit gigantic amounts of emissions into the atmosphere and compound the world’s efforts to tackle global warming. This study introduces and summarizes the response to wildfires, including fire monitoring, development prediction, and firefighting technology. Satellites, watchtowers, drones, and wireless sensor networks provide comprehensive forest fire monitoring data to fire departments. Artificial intelligence algorithms enhance data analysis and processing efficiency. Real-time wildfire risk prediction strategically guides fire force deployment, optimizing limited resources. The use of unmanned equipment in frontline firefighting enhances efficiency while minimizing risks to firefighters. However, it is revealed that effective rapid control plans for remote, isolated extreme fires remain lacking. This article aims to summarize the latest available technologies and strategies for responding to sudden wildfires, and aid relevant departments and personnel in devising emergency plans for the rapid detection and suppression of wildfires.