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Washington to combat wildfire threats with artificial intelligence technology

The new pilot program will enable early detection and monitoring to provide better data on wildfires as they emerge.

WASHINGTON — The Washington Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) announced they will be using artificial intelligence technology to combat Washington’s wildfires.

According to the statement, a new pilot partnership between WDNR and Pano AI would allow for the early detection and monitoring of wildfires. Its technology will increase DNR’s ability to get resources on the scene and alert nearby communities of danger in their area. 

"We're excited to partner with DNR to demonstrate the impact of our technology across Washington State this fire season," said Sonia Kastner, CEO and founder of Pano AI.

The technology will use cameras to identify smoke and fire immediately as it appears on the landscape and pinpoint the latitude and longitude.

The pilot program will pair ultra-high-definition, 360-degree cameras, satellites and other data feeds with artificial intelligence. The collected data will allow for safer, faster and more effective fire responses.  

"It means more time for nearby communities to receive information from emergency services and act quickly if evacuations are required," said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. 

The department and Pano AI recently signed a contract to begin the AI pilot project. Initial rollout system demonstrations are expected to begin soon.

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