AI-Powered Cameras on Cell Towers to Boost Wildfire Detection in BC

Published on May 29, 2024

Rogers Communications has deployed AI-powered cameras on cellphone towers in British Columbia to enhance wildfire detection. Mounted on two towers, these cameras, equipped with 360-degree, high-definition lenses, can detect fires from up to 24 kilometers away and use artificial intelligence to differentiate smoke from mist and clouds. Once a fire is detected, the system automatically alerts response crews. Each station, comprising two cameras, costs about US$50,000 annually. This initiative is part of a collaboration with the BC Wildfire Service and the University of British Columbia to combat wildfires and mitigate climate change impacts.

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