Naturally we tend to equate CCTV with security, and this is what makes the headlines, but the reality is that it has become much more than this. Where fire is concerned, for example, no longer is it simply a question of CCTV capturing images of intruders who may commit arson. Now, with the advent of smart video content analysis, CCTV can be readily applied to overcome previously problematic fire detection scenarios in commercial and public sector buildings. The beauty of this technique is that smoke can be identified in the very early stages of a fire in lofty, voluminous areas where high airflows are present - such as aircraft hangars, rail depots and office atriums - and it is simply not possible to place traditional detectors close enough to the area of risk.
So how does video smoke detection actually work? Central to its operation is the computer analysis of video images provided by standard CCTV cameras. Using image-processing technology and extensive detection and known false alarm algorithms; it can automatically identify the distinctive motion pattern of smoke and alerts the system operator to its presence in the shortest time possible. There is also the added benefit that as operators can actually see the event which has caused the alarm and reach an informed decision as to whether the emergency services are really required; there is real potential to reduce the prevalence of false alarms.
