JABLANICA: INNOVATIVE FIRE EARLY WARNING SYSTEM PILOT PROJECT LAUNCHED

SARAJEVO, OCTOBER 31 (ONASA) – People in Need (PIN) and the municipality of Jablanica in Bosnia and Herzegovina announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a revolutionary pilot project aimed at improving forest fire prevention and timely response in the region, he announced PIN.
This cooperation marks a significant step towards climate adaptation and risk reduction in an area that is increasingly affected by the effects of climate change.
As part of the pilot project, an advanced early warning system will be implemented, which works on the principle of using a network of high-tech sensors designed to detect potential sources of fire at an early stage.
This system, combined with a drone and an additional high-resolution camera, forms a unique system designed to prevent the spread of forest fires, saving lives, property and natural resources.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is witnessing an increasing number of forest fires, especially in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, with the number of fires increasing from four in 2013 to twelve in 2023.
Challenges in fighting these fires include inadequate and outdated equipment, insufficient personnel, difficult access to threatened areas, late fire detection and lack of water.
Forest fires contribute significantly to global carbon emissions, accounting for up to 20% of total annual emissions.
The global director of PIN’s Aid and Development Department, Jan Mrkvička, emphasized the urgency of implementing the project, stating the following: “Climate change is not a distant threat; it’s happening right now and it’s affecting our communities. This innovative early warning system is a key investment in our collective safety and environmental protection. We are committed to multiplying this solution to create resilient communities capable of meeting the challenges brought by climate change.”
The Mayor of Jablanica expressed gratitude and optimism regarding the project.
“The partnership with PIN testifies to our dedication to increasing the safety and well-being of our citizens, as well as preserving our forests and environment for generations to come. This pilot project is a step forward in our efforts to quickly and efficiently respond to the occurrence of forest fires, one of the most serious threats in our region, worsened by climate change. Together, we are laying the foundations for a safer and more resilient Jablanica.”
The early warning system works on the principle of using a network of smoke detectors, connected to the ‘Cloud’ system, providing advanced warnings and enabling a quick response to potential forest fires. The system’s sensors can detect smoke within minutes, enabling immediate action to prevent the fire from spreading.
The initiative also includes a comprehensive public awareness campaign, using RapidPro software to send customized messages via SMS and popular messaging apps, educating the community about wildfire risks and preventative measures, as well as providing fire warnings.
The pilot project in Jablanica serves as a potential model for forest fire prevention and adaptation to climate change, not only for the local community but also for the entire region.
After successful implementation, this innovative early warning system could be expanded and replicated, contributing significantly to national and regional risk reduction strategies.
The People in Need organization arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the early 1990s to deliver humanitarian aid and emergency supplies to those affected by the conflict and has since remained in the region to support socio-economic development.
With a focus on long-term sustainability and perseverance, PIN actively engages in climate change adaptation initiatives to protect vulnerable communities and preserve natural resources.