The PyroGuard AI system has detected dozens of fires across Cyprus over the past two years, highlighting the growing role artificial intelligence can play in the early detection and response to wildfires.
According to William Steven Demetriou, the system begins the detection process as soon as it identifies smoke or flames through its nationwide network of cameras.
“When the system detects smoke or fire, it sends an alert to our screens within 10 seconds. Operators then verify whether it is a genuine incident before informing the relevant authorities,” he said.
Predicting how fires will spread
Beyond detecting fires, PyroGuard AI also predicts how a blaze is likely to spread.
Demetriou explained that the artificial intelligence system uses triangulation through its network of monitoring stations to calculate the fire’s coordinates. It can also analyse the colour of the smoke to estimate the type of fire and provide information on wind direction and speed.
Network set to expand
The monitoring network currently consists of 65 autonomous stations located across Cyprus, with plans to increase that number to more than 100 by the end of the year.
Each station operates independently using solar panels and battery storage, allowing the system to continue functioning even during power outages.
“Our stations are autonomous. They are equipped with solar panels and batteries, meaning they continue operating even if electricity is cut in the area. Each tower also provides wind direction and wind speed data,” Demetriou said.
Recent detections
The system successfully detected the major wildfire at Kalo Chorio in Larnaca district and most recently identified the fire that broke out in Prasteio Kellakiou during the early hours of Tuesday.
Also read: Two arrested over attempted forest arson in Kornos
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