Using a Real-time Video to Allocate Public Protection and Disaster Relief Resources in Rescue Service Process : Case: Natural Disaster in the Viksu 2014 Young Firefighters Camp

Abstract

The simulated natural disaster was performed on the Viksu 2014 young firefighters camp area in Pori, Finland. It is said that “one picture is worth a thousand words” – But how rescue services operational decision-making processes can be enhanced? It is a crucial issue in this matter because Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) services such as the fire brigade with volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) are tasked with the challenge of providing the first response in life critical circumstances. The objective of this case study was to research the added value of real-time video in simulated natural disaster and compare the results with different user-needs. EyeSolution ́s real-time situational awareness software for smartphones and command and control systems were tested in connection with the exercise. The material of this case study was gathered by literature reviews, interviews and observation in the field during the Viksu 2014 camp. The results can be summarized that real-time situational awareness solution enhanced different PPDR actors work in during the accident but usability and technological innovations must move in the same direction.