Search Results (5)

The deployment of fixed-wing aircraft in fire-extinguishing operations represents a significant advancement in the domain of aviation emergency rescue. Addressing the challenge of enhancing firefighting efficacy, this study delves into the water-dropping strategies of fixed-wing extinguishers and provides a methodological framework for the strategic planning and assessment of water-dropping tactics, employing multi-resolution modeling. The formulation of the planning algorithm and the structure of the effectiveness evaluation index system are explained accordingly. The corresponding prototype system was designed, comprising four subsystems that utilized distinct resolution models: fire environment simulation, water-dropping point scheme planning, approaching path planning, and mission evaluation simulation. Case studies validate the system’s capability to forecast fire and smoke propagation, plan a water-dropping trajectory based on the fire line, optimize flight paths based on the trajectory, and simulate as well as evaluate the whole firefighting mission process. The above research comprehensively constructs the model, finishes the iterative optimization, and evaluates the water-dropping strategy by simulation. The technical path and methodological framework of studying water-dropping strategies are established. The outcomes of this study provide invaluable support for the parameter inversion design of the fixed-wing extinguisher, offering decision-making assistance to commanders and supplying training scenarios for new aviation crews. Full article

Even though drinking water utilities are not meant to fight wildfires, they quickly become stakeholders, if not first responders, when their resources are needed for firefighting. The August 2023 wildfires on the island of Maui, Hawaii, USA, have highlighted weaknesses at this intersection. While attention has focused on the wildfire causes or water quality impacts afterward, few studies have analyzed the response. We review this extreme case to support disaster-response lessons for water utilities and to guide further research and policy. First, emergency water releases were not available in a timely manner. Second, fire and wind toppled power lines, causing power outages that inhibited pumping water. Third, many structures were a total loss despite water doused on them, consuming valuable water. Finally, water was lost through damaged premise plumbing in burned structures, further reducing system pressure. These conditions emphasize that water utilities need to access emergency water supplies quickly, establish reliable backup electricity, coordinate with firefighters on priority water uses, and shut valves in burned areas to preserve water. While further research will certainly follow, we present these early lessons as starting points. Full article

The sustainable management of forest ecosystems is directly linked to the management of forest fires. The increasing occurrence of wildfires has prompted the need for the establishment of infrastructure aimed at addressing them. The placement of anti-fire water reservoirs can address the lack of water intake points. This study introduces a decision support system (DSS) tailored for the optimal allocation of anti-fire water reservoirs in Mediterranean forest ecosystems, ensuring a reliable water supply for firefighting operations. The methodology integrates the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and the technique of order of preference by similarity to ideal solutions (TOPSIS) methods, facilitating precise location determination through comprehensive criteria analysis. Additionally, the analysis of the forest road network is incorporated to optimize the placement of water reservoirs. In the forest complex of Taxiarchis, Chalkidiki, Greece, 100 potential reservoir sites were identified and prioritized based on factors such as fire risk, proximity to existing water sources, and coverage area using optimal pathways. The study’s findings demonstrate that by establishing 34 water reservoirs, firefighting forces can access a replenishment point within a 5-min travel time. The conclusions underscore the efficacy of this methodology as a valuable decision-making tool for sustainable wildfire prevention planning. This approach contributes to allocating resources judiciously, effectively mitigating the wildfire risk in Mediterranean forest ecosystems, and therefore promoting sustainability. Full article

Wildland fires frequently happen and develop in hard-to-reach regions, fast covering large areas due to the presence of ignitable matters together with beneficial meteorological circumstances. Human actions and natural events are the main reasons for the appearance of wildland fires. Our study focusses on the idea of using natural resources, namely water assets on the fire-affected territory. Since fire suppression is primarily performed with water, the provision of sufficient water sources in the proximity of the burning area is critical. An investigation of the hydrological characteristics of the territory is needed, especially in the driest months, when most of the wildfire events are expected to occur. The construction of a support point for fire-fighting water supplies in the wildland territories is also a requirement for building a network of water assets in the wildland territories. Full article

A model predictive control (MPC) framework, exploiting both feedforward and feedback control loops, is employed to minimize large disturbances that occur in military water networks. Military installations’ need for resilient and efficient water supplies is often challenged by large disturbances like fires, terrorist activity, troop training rotations, and large scale leaks. This work applies the effectiveness of MPC to provide predictive capability and compensate for vast geographical differences and varying phenomena time scales using computational software and actual system dimensions and parameters. The results show that large disturbances are rapidly minimized while maintaining chlorine concentration within legal limits at the point of demand and overall water usage is minimized. The control framework also ensures pumping is minimized during peak electricity hours, so costs are kept lower than simple proportional control. Thecontrol structure implemented in this work is able to support resiliency and increased efficiency on military bases by minimizing tank holdup, effectively countering large disturbances, and efficiently managing pumping. Full article