Today’s lecture explored the ways in which the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) uses GIS to improve public safety. Applications included risk analysis, response mapping, operational decision making, station planning, apparatus deployment and station relocation.
The CFD assesses and analyzes risk by collecting survey data of structures at risk, taking into consideration potential exposure due to close proximity, and accessibility to emergency vehicles (narrow streets can limit the amount of space for response vehicles).
Another interesting use of GIS in emergency planning was how the CFD maps emergency response times. It is a great example of a simple analytical procedure with very important implications.
The CFD also maps monthly calls, property loss, fire-related deaths, station and hydrant locations, historical fire loss, as well as oil & gas locations. All of these applications can help maintain and improve public safety – a feat that is particularly relevant for Calgary, the fastest growing city in Canada.
It is clear that GIS is a powerful tool in operational decision-making.