Achi news desk-
Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) has launched a new pilot program aimed at early detection of wildfires.
The program will use cameras and artificial intelligence (AI) software in three areas of the borough.
A news release from the HRM says specialized cameras have been installed on provincial communications towers in Hammonds Plains, Musquodoboit Harbor and Middle Sackville.
The cameras run 24 hours a day, seven days a week and have a 360 degree view.
The AI ​​software looks for signs of smoke and if any are detected an alert will be sent to the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service for crews to assess.
Wildfires last spring in the northwest suburbs of Halifax burned 969 hectares, destroyed 151 homes and forced more than 16,000 residents to flee the area.
The municipality is also sharing tips for residents to remember during the current wildfire season, which began on March 15:
