Efforts to detect wildfires in their infancy in Vernon are catching on by a nearby resort.
Predator Ridge is the first residential and resort community in Canada to invest in SenseNet.
Based in Vancouver, SenseNet is a technology that offers rapid wildfire detection capabilities, safeguarding critical infrastructure and valuable properties in high-risk areas.
As part of a two-year pilot project initiated in August 2022, the City of Vernon in cooperation with Vernon Fire Rescue Services, SenseNet, the Government of Canada, Innovate BC, and Rider Ventures, has been installing a network of sensors, gateways, and cameras in areas prone to wildfires, creating a protective fire detection perimeter around the city. Predator Ridge, one of the pilot’s test sites, has had the opportunity to evaluate its effectiveness in detecting early signs of fire.
READ MORE: Early wildfire detection system tested, launched in Vernon
Throughout the pilot, the SenseNet technology has undergone extensive testing, consistently demonstrating remarkable accuracy and speed in providing real-time data essential for emergency response and public safety.
“When we get fuel mitigation and early detection right, and have an adequate response, the fires typically go out while they are still manageable,” said Vernon fire chief David Lind. “Early detection is also key for moving people out of the way when fast moving fires do occur.”
Predator Ridge is installing more than 100 sensors, five gateways and five cameras, providing a comprehensive network of safety around the perimeter of the community.
SensorNodes detect the earliest signs of wildfires using gas sensing and thermal imaging, providing crucial time for response.
The system will be monitored and managed through Vernon Fire Rescue Services and Emergency Management, offering real-time fire information and enhancing early fire detection for quick incident response.
“Our proven solution is unique in the world in terms of detection speed and accuracy and can detect fires even in their smoldering phases when there is no flame or smoke signature,” said SenseNet CEO Hamed Noori.
“Our technology is a tool; the real champions are the forward-thinking leaders and fire departments who utilize these tools to enhance their capabilities in this new era of increasingly severe wildfires.”
Brad Pelletier, senior VP of Predator Ridge says the resort is setting a new standard in residential safety by proactively addressing the growing threat of wildfires in the region.
“This investment in SenseNet technology in concert with our resident driven Community Safety Committee and our existing infrastructure of safety measures, truly makes Predator Ridge one of the safest places to live in Canada,” said Pelletier.
READ MORE: Brush fires at Vernon resort part of testing
