Governor explains use of fire mapping technologies

During a recent press conference following the Fallbrook (Rice Canyon) Fire, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger explained the extensive use of proven digital mapping technologies used in a collaborative effort by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and FEMA.

This cutting-edge approach let firefighters see through dense smoke, giving them a more accurate, real-time picture of fire conditions on the ground.

“Digital mapping increases the safety of our firefighters by providing a clear picture of what is going on behind the smoke,” Governor Schwarzenegger said. “This important tool helps firefighters anticipate fire behavior, identify threats and deploy resources with better precision.”

Among the digital mapping technologies being used to fight the devastating southern California fires are infrared aerial photography, satellite global positioning, digital imaging and highly specialized aircraft, including an unmanned computerized aircraft flown and operated by personnel on the ground.

After a fire, the mapping can also be used to help recovery operations. Local, state and federal agencies can use this data to quickly complete repair work and help communities recover from the fires.