Smart Firefighting
Smart Firefighting Podcast covers real-world deployments of smart technologies through conversations with technologists, innovators, companies, and forward-thinking public safety and government agencies. Learn from interviews with leaders as they share their insights and offer their expertise every week! Host Kevin Sofen is a co-founding member of the Smart First Responder Community who loves to explore change management and technology in public safety.
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Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
How is forest fire monitoring changing for the better?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How space-based technology is changing forest fire monitoring
How OroraTech's shoebox-sized satellites provide real-time insights for better decision-making in wildfire response
How wildfire analytics, like fire-weighted power, help incident commanders understand fire behavior
Hear from Thomas Grübler, Co-founder, previous Chief Strategy Officer, and current CEO of OroraTech.
Thomas introduces their innovative space-based technology for forest fire monitoring. OroraTech uses a combination of data from public satellite sources and their own shoebox-sized satellites to provide continuous fire observations with high image quality. This data enables incident commanders to make better decisions by offering insights into fire perimeters, growth patterns, and fire types, whether canopy or ground fires.
Thomas emphasizes the importance of wildfire analytics and the need for ongoing innovation in the field of firefighting. He also credits XPRIZE for helping raise awareness and supporting demonstrations of OroraTech's capabilities. Looking ahead, Thomas is excited about the launch of a new fleet of satellites and sees promising opportunities for profitability in the space industry. He invites fire chiefs, fire communities, and corporations to explore partnerships with OroraTech.
So take a listen to hear what he has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
Here’s why you gotta be more curious:
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
The value of training in the fire service
How technology like virtual reality and gas props is transforming fire service training
How the Institution of Fire Engineers bridges the gap between industry professionals and firefighters
Hear from Steve Kaiser from Fire and Rescue Victoria.
Steve shares his experiences at the Fire Department Instructor's Conference (FDIC) in the United States, along with insights into the training facilities in Chicago and Melbourne. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of training in the fire service, helping firefighters refine their skills and improve decision-making under pressure.
Steve highlights the use of innovative technologies like gas props and virtual reality to enhance training, making it safer and more effective. The discussion also touches on the Institution of Fire Engineers' role in connecting industry professionals, engineers, and firefighters, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Steve concludes by emphasizing the importance of curiosity in continuous learning and growth within the fire service.
So take a listen to hear what he has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
Let’s talk about the importance of measuring what matters in the fight against climate change…
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
Leveraging IoT, computer vision, and AI for wildfire detection
How data aggregation helps first responders with real-time detection and triage
Discover the goals of the XPRIZE wildfire competition and how it aims to revolutionize fire response
Hear from Rob Vernon - the CEO of Indicium Dynamics.
Rob shares insights into their participation in the XPRIZE wildfire competition, focusing on innovative approaches to fire detection and response. Working alongside a team of partners, Indicinium uses IoT, computer vision, and AI to aggregate and analyze data, providing high-quality detection and triage services to first responders. Rob discusses their plans to have operational services using drones for situational awareness by Christmas, with a key milestone set for March.
The XPRIZE competition emphasizes both rapid detection and automated response to fires, aiming to transform how wildfire incidents are managed. Throughout the conversation, Rob stresses the importance of "measuring what matters" in tackling climate change and using data effectively.
So take a listen to hear what he has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
A new firefighter’s journey into the fire service:
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
Why diversity and inclusivity matter in serving diverse communities effectively
How AI and drones are shaping the future of firefighting
Why you should strive to be 1% better every day
Hear from Sirena Allen-de Guzman, a firefighter in Sydney.
Sirena shares her inspiring journey into the fire service. She reflects on the multifaceted nature of the role, from supporting the local community to adapting to diverse challenges on the job. Sirena emphasizes the importance of teamwork, adhering to protocols, and the potential of emerging technologies like AI and drones to make firefighting safer and more efficient.
She talks about the need for greater diversity and inclusivity within the fire service to better understand and serve diverse communities. Sirena also appreciates the role of organizations like the Institution of Fire Engineers in fostering global connections and learning opportunities for firefighters. Guided by her personal motto of striving to be 1% better every day, Sirena’s perspective highlights the value of continuous growth and improvement in the fire service.
So take a listen to hear what she has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday May 08, 2025
Thursday May 08, 2025
How are intelligent satellites revolutionizing wildfire response?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How Akula Tech’s use of 3D printing makes satellites faster, lighter, and more affordable
How Akula Tech integrates AI processing and hyperspectral imaging for advanced data analysis
How Akula Tech’s satellites help firefighters make critical decisions
Hear from Preetham Akula - Founder and CEO of Akula Tech.
Preetham shares Akula Tech’s work on developing intelligent satellites that transform emergency management. Participating in XPRIZE, Akula Tech focuses on creating satellites that offer real-time awareness and analysis of wildfires, empowering firefighters to make informed decisions during critical moments.
Preetham explains how Akula Tech's full system-level approach covers everything from satellite development to software and operations. By leveraging 3D printing, they produce satellites that are faster, lighter, and more cost-effective. Equipped with a system on chip for AI processing and a hyperspectral camera, these satellites provide vital data to emergency operations centers.
Akula Tech also emphasizes the importance of collaborating with industry partners to enhance data sharing and impact.
So take a listen to hear what he has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
How can we increase diversity in the fire service?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
Why equal opportunities and gender balance are key to fostering diversity of thought
How Women & Firefighting Australasia is working to create safer and more inclusive fire service organizations
Why collaboration between fire engineers and firefighters is essential for building safety
Hear from Quinn Cramer - the President of Women & Firefighting Australasia.
Quinn shares her insights on the progress and challenges of increasing diversity and representation in the fire service. She reflects on the history of women in firefighting in Australia and the efforts to build safer and more inclusive organizations. Quinn emphasizes the importance of creating equal opportunities for everyone, fostering diversity of thought, and ensuring a gender balance in recruitment and leadership roles.
She discusses the need for better collaboration between fire engineers and firefighters to enhance building safety and understanding. Quinn also offers valuable advice on the power of courage—encouraging others to pursue their work and life with wholehearted dedication.
So take a listen to hear what she has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
Thursday Apr 24, 2025
What are the benefits of using drones for emergency response?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How drones are being used for situational awareness, indoor assessments, and managing hazardous material incidents
The challenges of drone implementation
Why collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential for the successful integration of drones in the fire service
Hear from Russell Turner - the Chief Remote Pilot and Team Leader of Aviation for Fire and Rescue NSW.
Russell shares insights into how drones are transforming emergency response. He discusses their use in providing situational awareness, conducting indoor assessments, and managing hazardous material incidents, all of which help to enhance safety and efficiency during operations.
Russell also outlines the challenges of implementing drones, including navigating regulatory restrictions and overcoming public perception hurdles. He envisions a future where drones are standard tools in the fire service, offering improved capabilities for emergency response. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among fire services and other stakeholders to maximize the benefits of drone technology.
So take a listen to hear what he has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Here’s how Earth Fire Alliance is enhancing global fire monitoring:
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How Earth Fire Alliance provides data equity and real-time situational awareness to fire agencies
How their partnership with XPRIZE is driving innovation in Earth observation technology
Insights on better tools for decision-making and risk reduction
Hear from Karen O'Connor - the Founding Principal at the Earth Fire Alliance.
Karen introduces Earth Fire’s ambitious mission to revolutionize fire monitoring through a new constellation of satellites. As a nonprofit organization, they are dedicated to providing global fire capability and ensuring data equity for fire agencies around the world. The satellites, designed for real-time fire monitoring, offer a high-resolution pixel size of 80 meters with updates every 20 minutes, allowing agencies to gain situational awareness and make informed decisions.
The conversation also explores the Earth Fire’s collaboration with XPRIZE, leveraging Earth observation technology and benefiting from cutting-edge innovations developed through the competition. With the satellite launch just months away, the Earth Fire Alliance is eager to provide fire agencies with critical data to enhance their response and risk reduction efforts.
So take a listen to hear what she has to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
What are the challenges (and solutions) of emergency response in the rail corridor?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
The specialized skills and equipment needed for rail emergencies
The evolution of Rail Fire in New South Wales as it adapts to new challenges
How Rail Fire and Fire and Rescue NSW exemplify the importance of interoperability
Hear from Nicholas Coney (from Rail Fire and Emergency in New South Wales) and Brett Richardson (Manager of Fire & Emergency Operations for Transport for NSW).
Nicholas and Brett share their experiences and the unique challenges of managing incidents within the rail corridor. They discuss the critical need for interoperability between Rail Fire and Fire and Rescue NSW to ensure effective response efforts in the rail industry.
The conversation covers the specialized skills and equipment required to handle the hazards specific to rail emergencies, as well as the history and evolution of Rail Fire as it adapts to new technologies and challenges.
Nicholas and Brett also highlight the role of the Institution of Fire Engineers in promoting knowledge sharing and the importance of maintaining high standards to ensure safety and efficiency within the fire service.
So take a listen to hear what they have to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
What are the 3 keys to effective fire service products?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How technology can make firefighters safer and more efficient
Why core values like integrity, honesty, loyalty, and respect matter
The importance of finding a compelling reason behind the work you do
Hear from Kelly Richardson and Eric Combs – the President of Fire and Emergency Business Group at Safe Fleet.
Kelly and Eric share their experiences in the fire service, reflecting on their time at a rugby game and the deep sense of family that the fire service provides. They emphasize the critical role of technology in enhancing firefighter safety and efficiency, stressing the importance of simplicity, durability, and dependability in the products used by first responders.
The conversation highlights the core values that guide their work—integrity, honesty, loyalty, and respect—and how these principles help foster a strong community within the fire service. They also discuss the power of having a compelling reason behind their work, which drives their dedication and passion for protecting others.
So take a listen to hear what they have to share!
Episode Resources:
AFAC25 Conference
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn