The role of robots in firefighting

Purpose - This paper aims to provide details of recently developed firefighting robots and their applications. Design/methodology/approach - Following a short introduction, this paper, firstly, gives details of a selection of recently launched terrestrial firefighting robots. It then discusses the role of drones and describes some recent developments and applications. Finally, conclusions are drawn. Findings - The last five years have seen the commercialisation of a growing number of terrestrial firefighting robots, which are remotely controlled, all-terrain vehicles that support fire crews operating in hazardous environments. They are equipped with imaging and other sensors, which provide firefighters with enhanced situation awareness and hazard warnings. Drones are being developed to fight fires in high-rise buildings. Some feature on-board fire extinguishing materials, whereas others can elevate a fire hose to the site of the fire. Drones equipped with advanced imaging devices are being used increasingly by firefighters to enhance situation awareness and assist in dealing with wildfires. Technologies are being developed that aim to increase the flight duration and payload capacity of firefighting drones. Originality/value - Firefighting is a recent robotic application, and this paper provides an insight into this by considering a range of products and developments.