Kragujevac firefighters battle fires with drones
Translated from Serbian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Kragujevac firefighters are using drones equipped with thermal cameras to monitor areas prone to fires in Šumadija.
- This preventative measure is a response to significant fires experienced in previous years.
- The drones help in the early detection of fires, especially in inaccessible terrain, and assess vegetation dryness and access routes for fire crews.
Kragujevac firefighters are employing advanced technology, including drones with thermal imaging cameras, to proactively monitor areas in Šumadija for potential fires. This initiative is a direct response to the severe fires that have plagued the region in previous years.
The members of the Kragujevac Administration for Emergency Situations are conducting nighttime reconnaissance of terrains with the highest risk of fire outbreaks. This strategy aims to ensure the timely detection of any developing blazes.
The surveillance covers areas such as the northern slopes of Crni Vrh and Bešnjaja, as well as steep and inaccessible terrains near the villages of Donje Komarice and Strižilovo in the Jagodina municipality. The drones provide crucial aerial views to identify potential hazards.
Observations from the aerial patrols indicate that while the forest vegetation remains green, unwooded areas are covered in tall, dry grass. This dry grass poses a significant fire risk due to its high flammability. Additionally, the drones have noted that access roads within some forested areas are overgrown with low vegetation, making them difficult for fire crews to navigate in the event of an emergency.
Originally published by N1 Serbia in Serbian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.