©ADAI/University of Coimbra
Pre-reading questions:
- What are the main challenges faced by firefighters when combating wildfires, and how can drones potentially address those challenges?
- What are the benefits of using drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras in wildfire scenarios?
Vocabulary:
- preserve /pri-ZURV/
- spread /spred/
- device /dih-VAHYS/
- equipped /ih-KWIPT/
- revolutionary /rev-uh-LOO-shuh-ner-ee/
[verb] – to keep something as it is, especially in order to prevent it from decaying or being damaged or destroyed
It is important to preserve our natural resources, such as trees and water, to ensure a clean and healthy environment for future generations.
[verb] – to cover or reach a wider or increasing area, or to make something do this
During the science experiment, the students observed how the liquid spread across the surface of the paper, creating a colorful pattern.
[noun] – an object or machine that has been invented for a particular purpose
Lisa used a small electronic device to measure her heart rate while she was exercising in the gym.
[adjective] – having the necessary tools, clothes, equipment, etc.
The camping trip was exciting because each tent was equipped with a cozy sleeping bag and a flashlight for exploring in the dark.
[adjective] – relating to a complete change in a system of government, or bringing or causing great change
The invention of the telephone was revolutionary, as it allowed people to communicate with each other over long distances for the first time.
Article reading:
When wildfires spread, they can quickly overwhelm traditional firefighting methods. However, firefighting drones offer a promising solution. These flying devices can reach remote areas, assisting firefighters in their battle against the raging fires. Equipped with thermal cameras, drones can detect areas with intense heat and track the movement of the fires in real time, providing crucial information to ground crews. Moreover, they can swiftly deliver fire retardants or water to slow down the progress of the fire. Drones aid firefighters with smarter planning. They use AI and machine learning to analyze data, predict behavior, and optimize strategies. Whether autonomous or remote-controlled, they offer flexibility and safety. Drones also help prevent wildfires and assess the damage with high-resolution cameras. The data gathered supports future fire management and improved firefighting techniques.
These revolutionary firefighting drones offer improved capabilities in detecting, suppressing, preventing, and assessing wildfires. Thanks to advancements in technology and ongoing research, we are witnessing the unleashing of their full potential, which helps protect lives, properties, and natural habitats from the devastating impact of wildfires.
Comprehension questions
- What is the main purpose of firefighting drones?
- How do firefighting drones assist firefighters in battling wildfires?
- What type of technology do drones use to detect areas with intense heat and track the movement of fires?
- What are some advantages of using firefighting drones in wildfire management?
- How can drones help prevent wildfires and assess the damage caused by them?
Discussion questions
- Have you ever heard about the use of drones in firefighting? If so, what comes to your mind when you think about it?
- What experiences have you or someone you know had with wildfires, and how do you think firefighting drones could have made a difference in those situations?
- Do you agree that firefighting drones have the potential to revolutionize wildfire management?
- According to the article, drones equipped with thermal cameras can detect fire hotspots and track their movements. How do you think this real-time information could be valuable to ground crews?
- The article mentions that drones can deliver fire retardants or water swiftly to slow down the fire’s advance. How do you think this rapid response can benefit firefighters in their battle against wildfires?