AI in Firefighting: A powerful ally or a risky crutch?

Artificial intelligence is transforming the fire service—but experts warn that overreliance could undermine the very skills that save lives.

AI offers powerful tools for firefighting—from predictive analytics to automated reporting—but fire chiefs across North America are urging caution. While technology can enhance efficiency and safety, it must not replace human judgment, critical thinking, or field experience.

The Promise of AI in Fire Service

Across the globe fire departments are integrating AI into operations, training, and administration. According to a strategic scan by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE), departments are using AI for:

• Risk assessment: AI analyzes historical data, weather patterns, and building layouts to identify high-risk zones.
• Pre-incident planning: Algorithms help map out response strategies before a call even comes in.
• Training simulations: AI-driven platforms simulate complex fire scenarios, allowing firefighters to practice without physical risk.
• Administrative efficiency: Tools like ChatGPT assist with report writing, SOP drafting, and grant applications.

At the IAFC Technology Summit International, fire service leaders emphasized that AI is not just a future tool—it’s already reshaping how departments operate.

The Risks of Overreliance

But not everyone is convinced that more tech equals better outcomes. In a widely discussed Firehouse article, Chief Gregory McComb warns that AI may be eroding firefighters’ cognitive skills.

“If firefighters and officers are allowed to offload their thinking onto an AI platform, the fire service is at risk of a degradation of competence,” McComb writes.

His concerns include:

• Loss of critical thinking: New recruits may rely on AI to interpret policies or study for exams, bypassing the struggle that builds understanding.
• Reduced mentorship: Traditional learning through experience and peer guidance may be sidelined by digital shortcuts.
• Blind trust in flawed outputs: AI can misinterpret context or produce biased recommendations, especially in dynamic, high-stakes environments.

The CPSE’s strategic scan echoes these concerns, urging departments to develop formal AI policies, expand training, and pilot AI tools in low-risk areas.

Striking the Balance

Experts agree that AI should be a support tool, not a substitute for human decision-making. Firefighters must be trained to use AI responsibly—questioning outputs, verifying data, and maintaining situational awareness.

“We’re at a crossroads,” McComb writes. “One road leads to enhanced efficiency. The other, if we aren’t intentional, leads to a workforce that leans so heavily on AI that members stop thinking for themselves.”

While Fire Chief Rob Wylie’s cautionary article in Firehouse warns against training “AI dependents,” other experts and institutions are highlighting how AI is already enhancing firefighter safety, improving response times, and revolutionizing risk assessment.

Real-World Benefits of AI in Fire Service

According to a feature by Emergent Tech, AI is now being used to detect fires faster than traditional alarms, differentiate between false positives (like steam or dust), and trigger suppression systems automatically. These systems are especially valuable in industrial sites and remote locations where early detection can prevent disaster.

AI also plays a critical role in predictive analytics, analyzing historical fire data, weather patterns, and building layouts to identify high-risk zones. This allows departments to pre-position resources, prioritize inspections, and allocate funding more effectively.

“AI-driven predictive analytics help cities allocate manpower efficiently, ensuring fire prevention efforts target the most vulnerable communities,” writes the Emergent team.

Smarter Safety Gear and Remote Tools

AI is also embedded in smart PPE, which monitors heart rate, oxygen levels, and exposure to toxic gases. These systems alert incident commanders when a firefighter is in distress, enabling rapid intervention and reducing the risk of cardiac events and heat exhaustion—two leading causes of firefighter fatalities.

Meanwhile, AI-powered drones and robots are changing how departments approach hazardous incidents. Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can assess fire conditions in real time, while autonomous robots can suppress flames in environments too dangerous for human entry.

Training the Next Generation

In a report by the International Fire and Safety Journal, AI is credited with enhancing firefighter training through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These platforms simulate complex rescue scenarios and adapt to individual skill levels, offering immersive, tailored learning experiences.

“AI can adapt training scenarios to the firefighter’s needs, making learning more effective and safer,” notes IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White.

Balancing Innovation with Integrity

While the benefits are clear, experts agree that AI must be implemented with caution. A report from Employment by AI highlights ethical concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the need for human oversight in life-or-death decisions.

The consensus? AI is a powerful ally—but not a replacement for human judgment.

“The future of firefighting isn’t just about smarter machines,” Chief Wylie reminds us. “It’s about smarter firefighters.”

Photo Credit: Biological brain vs AI and robotics. Simple illustration executed by MS CoPilot.

📚 Sources / Read More:

Emergent Tech – The Use of AI in Firefighting

International Fire and Safety Journal – The Role of AI in Modern Fire and Rescue Services

Employment by AI – How Artificial Intelligence Is Revolutionizing the Role of Firefighters

Firehouse – Are We Training Firefighters or AI Dependents?

FireRescue1 – Summit explores new tech, AI and the shift to data-driven models

FireEngineering – CPSE Issues Strategic Scan on AI in the Fire and Emergency Service