Real-Time Locating Systems for Managing Fire Fighting

Abstract

This Master´s Thesis first provides a hypothesis for the optimization of fire rescue operations by utilizing RTLS (Real-Time Locating Systems) system. Then a theoretical background of short-range radio devices (SRD) and SRD based RTLS solutions are introduced and technology comparison presented. The objective of comparison is to find out tolerant candidates first for field tests and secondly for future operational purposes. It is important that candidates are at adequate level.

A novel approach application model of how to use RTLS for the optimization of rescue operation is presented and discussed. The application model is also illustrated with some clarifying pictures.

In the end there was only one candidate left, Essensium LOST. The field tests were executed for the chosen candidate (LOST) at the premises of OUAS (Oulu University of Applied Sciences) and the results were reported. The result was that none of the candidates, not even the LOST, is ready to be used in rescue operations.

Finally some development work is suggested based on the factors identified under this study.