FOI Request 2192

Subject: Wildfire Detection Systems

Status: Complete

Date received: July 2025

Question Asked:

I’m reaching out to understand what systems, if any, your department currently uses to detect fires and predict their spread. I’m also interested in whether a tool that offers early detection and predictive modelling would be of value to your team.

Our Response:

Regarding detection -

We utilise the Met office and monitor weather forecasts.

Predicting their spread -

This is achieved using the Wildfire prediction system (WPS)

This system assesses the vegetation type, the wind speed, the slope of the ground and if the fire is in or out of aspect - This produces a factor ranging from 0-3. The WPS allows us to predict which direction and how fast the fire is likely to travel.

Outcome: Information Provided

FOI responded to within timescales: YES

Further action: NO