NIST Researchers Develop AI Tool to Predict Flashover

Firefighters at Boone County Fire District 2 undertake flashover training

Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed an artificial intelligence tool that purports to be able to predict flashovers at structure fires, according to a new podcast.

The Federal News Network spoke with NIST researcher Dr. Andy Tam about the phenomenon of flashover itself and how the predictive modeling works. Listen to the complete podcast here.

According to Tam, the model is still in proof of concept stage, and is a machine-learning based model that would be reliant on heat detectors within structures.

If successful, the development could help save the lives of firefighters operating on the fireground.

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