Federal University Dutse student develops AI-powered fire detection system

A final-year student of the Department of Physics, Faculty of Physical Sciences, Federal University Dutse, FUD, Daha Muhammad Albakari, has developed an Artificial Intelligence, AI-powered fire detection and prevention system designed to identify fire hazards at an early stage and facilitate rapid emergency response.

The innovation, known as AI FIRE SYSTEM, combines computer vision, embedded AI, Internet of Things, IoT, technology and environmental sensing to provide fast and intelligent fire detection.

Mr Albakari explained that the system represents an advancement over conventional fire alarms, which typically rely on smoke or heat sensors and activate only after detecting signs associated with an existing fire.

According to him, AI FIRE SYSTEM continuously analyses visual and environmental data in real time, enabling it to identify potential fire hazards earlier, reduce false alarms and improve the speed and effectiveness of emergency response.

He said conventional fire detection systems rely primarily on smoke or heat sensors, which are largely reactive rather than proactive and can generate false alarms triggered by cooking smoke, steam or dust.

He added that many existing systems also provide limited information for decision-making and lack the ability to intelligently analyse their environment, assess risk levels and communicate meaningful alerts to users.

Mr Albakari said he was motivated to develop the system by the need for an affordable, intelligent and locally developed solution capable of detecting fire hazards at an early stage and providing actionable information before minor incidents escalate into major disasters.

He explained that AI FIRE SYSTEM uses an ESP32-CAM to capture real-time images, while environmental sensors monitor temperature and gas concentration. An embedded AI model then analyses the data to classify conditions as fire, smoke or normal and determine the level of risk.

According to him, once a potential hazard is detected, the system activates local alarms and can transmit notifications to users through Wi-Fi or GSM connectivity.

Mr Albakari said the system could be deployed in homes, schools, hospitals, offices, markets, hotels, warehouses, factories, filling stations and other high-risk environments.

He added that by using affordable hardware and locally developed AI technology, the innovation seeks to make intelligent fire safety solutions more accessible across Nigeria while contributing to the country’s digital transformation and development of smart infrastructure.

The initiative also aligns with the Vice-Chancellor’s 11-Point Agenda of FUD and underscores the university’s emphasis on research, innovation and practical solutions to societal challenges.

The development is expected to enhance FUD’s visibility and further strengthen its position among Nigerian universities in academic excellence, technological innovation and research-driven solutions.