Newsroom
As Cyprus grapples with another sweltering summer and heightened fire risk, the Municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia is turning to artificial intelligence for help.
Fifteen high-tech fire detection stations are being installed across the municipality as part of a new partnership between local authorities and Kernel Consultants Ltd., using a pioneering system called FireWatch AI. Developed by Cyprus-based Neuranet Solutions Ltd., the system uses AI to detect smoke or fire from as far as 15 kilometers away, and alerts go out in seconds.
“Fires don’t wait, and now, neither do we,” said a Kernel Consultants spokesperson. “This is what smart prevention looks like.”
“This technology gives us a critical edge in fire prevention,” said municipal officials, stressing the importance of early detection as temperatures soar and wildfire risks spike.
The new network covers all municipal districts within Paralimni-Deryneia. Once a potential fire is detected, the system sends a signal to specialized AI servers for instant analysis. A trained operator then verifies the threat and notifies both the Fire Department and the Forestry Department, ensuring a swift and coordinated response.
High-tech defense, no cost to taxpayers
Remarkably, the system is being installed and operated free of charge under a research and development initiative aimed at improving the technology in real-world conditions. Officials say the move not only strengthens local fire safety but could also position Cyprus as a global leader in AI-driven fire prevention.
With temperatures reaching dangerous highs and wildfires already plaguing parts of the island, the new system couldn’t come at a better time. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious smoke, even as technology adds a vital layer of protection.
“Fires don’t wait, and now, neither do we,” said a Kernel Consultants spokesperson. “This is what smart prevention looks like.”
