Tromsø fire department first in Norway to use drones for chimney inspections

Tromsø Fire and Rescue has become the first fire department in Norway to utilize drones for chimney inspections. This innovative approach significantly reduces the risks faced by firefighters, minimizes exposure to soot, and increases efficiency in their work. Drones allow for a comprehensive inspection of the entire chimney, which is not possible with traditional flashlights.

The project, developed in collaboration with UiT – The Arctic University of Norway, has encountered several challenges related to privacy, drone weight, lighting technology, and camera systems. The drones have been customized with unique systems, platforms, and lighting tools, showcasing the successful partnership between the fire department and the university.

Firefighter and fire prevention officer Vårin Hofsøy emphasized the advantages of using drones, stating that they allow for early assessments of chimneys across Norway, facilitating thousands of inspections annually. “We can zoom in, check the amount of soot, its type, and determine if sweeping is needed,” she explained, highlighting how the drones help identify any damage that requires homeowner notification.

Significant advancements in technology have changed the landscape of fire safety work. Hofsøy expressed pride in being part of this development and observed a positive reception from Tromsø residents regarding the drone initiative.

The collaboration has provided hands-on experience for students at UiT, which has been instrumental in developing the drone technology for inspection purposes. Challenges such as regulatory compliance and privacy concerns have been addressed in this partnership.

Hege Andrea Aamodt, head of the preventive department at Tromsø Fire and Rescue, reiterated the importance of leveraging each other’s strengths in this venture, stating that interdisciplinary cooperation can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Through this initiative, the risk involved in chimney inspections has been greatly diminished, thanks to the integration of drone technology.