Innovative technologies and equipment for first responders are tested in Cyprus 

On 19 October 2022, the RESPOND-A project organised its 2nd pilot near Larnaca in Cyprus. The exercise, led by IANUS consulting, gathered RESPOND-A technology providers, first responders from the Cyprus Fire Service and the Greek Civil Protection (RSF Hellas) as well as observers. The objective was to test innovative technologies and equipment that enhance the safety and operational capabilities of first responders, in a severe forest fire scenario. As a research and development project, pilots are key events in the project’s development as they allow technical providers to test and receive feedback on their solutions. The following technologies have been tested during the pilot: 

– Common Operational application – Real-time disaster management system – Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) operations and satellite communications backhaul – Interactive multi-view 360° Virtual Reality video system – Sensors and smart wearables for health status monitoring – Next generation triage system 

These are only a portion of the technologies developed within RESPOND-A. More details about the full range of RESPOND-A products & services are available on the RESPOND-A website. 

Technologies were used for area monitoring as well as the establishment of a common operational picture through real-time visualization and data collection. Sub-scenarios involving missing responders and the need for quick and effective triage and a rescue of victims in a car crash were also put in place. The performance of each solution will be carefully assessed and the feedback gathered will feed onto the technical development of the project. 

One last pilot will take place in Valencia, Spain in February 2023. The last RESPOND-A pilot before the end of the project around summer 2023. 

www.respond-a-project.eu