Experts advise Hanoi to use AI to prevent fires

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools would be useful for Hanoi in improving firefighting and rescue operations, a workshop heard on July 22.

Firefighters during a rescue operation at a fire scene on Phuc Tan Street, Hoan Kiem District.  Photo: Dat Le/The Hanoi Times

Some parts of the capital are a maze of small alleys and streets and high population density, and the city needs appropriate AI solutions to help with fire prevention in these places, said AI specialist Nguyen Le Minh.

Hanoi can develop an e-map showing fire stations and places at risk of fire and explosion, he said, adding that sensors and a citywide alert platform will be effective in warning people of fires and explosions.

"City authorities should draw up a list of business households, especially those dealing with explosives and flammable materials," Minh recommended.

"People and businesses must receive daily messages to raise their awareness of fire prevention and check every detail in their facilities," he added.

Minh also advised local authorities to install fire warning devices in all narrow alleys and streets and assign officials to monitor them.

Sharing the same ideas, Professor Ho Tu Bao said that digital communication would be helpful in making people aware of flammable risks.

He cited the experience of Japan, where two Japanese officials are assigned to walk the streets at 9 p.m. to check the fire safety standards of families and buildings.

He agreed with Minh that Hanoi authorities need to text all people, especially before bedtime, about the risks of fire and explosion.

Bao said that in addition to fire prevention, AI tools should be used in health screening and treatment.

These programs will improve the skills and performance of Hanoi's officials and civil servants in using AI solutions, Bao added.

"Hanoi needs to consider AI tools as an integral part of the digital transformation plan and explore the data that is highly available in the city," he said.

It is also important for the Hanoi government to cooperate with universities, institutes, and enterprises specializing in technology development to improve its AI competence, he noted.

The Hanoi Department of Information and Communication will soon consult with the city government to form an AI development council to facilitate R&D activities and bring the best benefits to people, said Nguyen Viet Hung, Director of the Department.

According to Hung, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is a key strategic goal that will revolutionize Vietnam's economy over the next decade. Many physical, labor-intensive jobs are rapidly being replaced by artificial intelligence, which is also driving economic acceleration.

The Hanoi People's Committee was advised by the ministry to release a plan in early February, outlining steps for digital transformation and building a smart Hanoi city by 2024. The creation of specialized apps, such as artificial intelligence (AI) for internal use in government institutions, and the creation of digital data are key tasks.

Hanoi has recently approved a US$1 billion program to upgrade citywide equipment and facilities and enhance fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue operations.