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Use of AI and Surveillance Cameras: California Specialist Detailed How They Combat Fires in the U.S.

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In the context of the 2nd Chile-California Conference: Prevention, Response, and New Technologies for Wildfires, organized by the Chile California Council, Nathan Barcklay, Deputy Director of Cooperative Fire Protection at CAL FIRE, told Diario Concepción that "the more than 1,200 AI-enabled fire detection cameras throughout the state of California, along with real-time data analysis, are incredibly valuable."

"These technologies help us monitor fire conditions, enable rapid responses, and facilitate informed decision-making during incidents," he added.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is considered the most advanced firefighting entity in California, and for the first time, they presented in the Biobío region. During this event, they showcased innovative technologies such as remote sensors, applied AI, and firefighting drones. Additionally, a historic agreement was signed between CONAF and CAL FIRE to collaborate on forest emergencies.

Nathan Barcklay explained that "CAL FIRE employs a range of strategies to reduce fire risks, including public education campaigns to promote fire safety and the strict enforcement of regulations to prevent human-caused fires."

"We are deeply committed to community collaboration. We work with various organizations, collaborate on fire safety workshops, and participate in joint planning efforts to enhance local preparedness and resilience," added the Deputy Director of Cooperative Fire Protection.

Regarding similarities between Biobío and California, he noted: "Chile and the United States experience drier and warmer climates that contribute to an increased risk of fires."

"Furthermore, both countries face challenges related to managing large and complex fires that can impact communities and natural resources. However, specific conditions and available resources may vary between the two regions," he concluded.

Conference and Panel in Concepción

The conference was organized by the non-profit Chile-California Council, in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and was held for the first time in Concepción.

The talk, held in the auditorium of the Faculty of Humanities and Arts at the University of Concepción, began at 9 am, and registrations to participate were available on the Chile California Council's social media.

The speakers, part of the top-level delegation from CAL FIRE, included Christopher Anthony, Fire Technology Advisor; Nathan Barcklay, Deputy Director of Cooperative Fire Protection (CAL FIRE); and the State Director of Fire Prevention for California, Daniel Berlant.

It also featured national representatives, such as Andrea Rodríguez, Vice President of Research and Development at the University of Concepción; Rolando Pardo Vergara, Head of the Department of Forest Fire Prevention and Mitigation at CONAF; Alejandro Sandoval, Regional Director of SENAPRED Biobío; and Ramón Figueroa Lizana, Fire Manager of the Chilean Wood Corporation.

CONAF

From CONAF, its regional director, Esteban Krause, "greatly valued the visit of the Cal Fire delegation, with whom a series of meetings and technical activities were shared in Concepción, aimed at strengthening cooperation between Chile and the United States in the prevention and combat of forest fires."

"Throughout the week, experiences were exchanged in strategic planning, emergency management, use of technologies, brigade training, and restoration of fire-affected areas. Additionally, joint strategies for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation were addressed, with the purpose of improving response capacity and resilience to large-scale fires," he added.

Furthermore, he explained that: "This technical and knowledge exchange reinforces our commitment to protecting ecosystems, natural resources, and communities, promoting comprehensive fire management based on prevention, international cooperation, and innovation in forest fire protection."

Source:Diario Concepción