VIDEO: Artificial intelligence is now helping keep watch over wildfire‑prone areas in southwestern Utah. Four new high‑tech AI camera stations have been installed as part of a pilot project aimed at detecting smoke almost instantly—crucial seconds that can make all the difference when a wildfire breaks out.
Every major wildfire begins with just a small plume of smoke. But when that smoke rises in remote areas with no one around to see it, a small fire can quickly grow out of control. “We’re operating on the old wildfire credo that minutes matter,” said Peter Ambler, vice president of government affairs with Pano AI, the maker of the cameras.
The Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands has launched a pilot program using these AI‑powered fire cameras. These new 360‑degree cameras are equipped with technology designed to alert fire agencies the moment smoke appears. Up until now, the state has largely relied on human eyes for early detection.
