Integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the Digital Transformation of Fire and Rescue Services
Emerging Trends in Economics, Culture and Humanities (etECH2025): Abstracts Proceedings 2025
Viktorija Politika, Jeļena Pundure, Andrejs Šišovs, Tatjana Tambovceva

The integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into fire and rescue operations marks a notable shift in emergency management. By combining real-time data transmission, thermal imaging, and advanced analytical tools, UAVs enhance situational awareness and improve resource distribution. Despite growing adoption, many aspects of their full potential remain uncharted. This study examines UAV applications to boost efficiency, streamline management processes, and support digital training in emergency services. Design / Methodology / Approach. A mixed-method framework was employed, integrating document analysis, expert interviews, and focused case studies. The evaluation centers on metrics of data acquisition, ICT infrastructure integration, and overall operational impact. Case studies on UAV-assisted fire detection and risk assessment provide concrete insights, while interviews with fire service professionals reveal challenges in training and regulatory compliance. Comparative analysis of international trends further contextualizes technological advancements in this field. Findings. The results confirm that UAVs are pivotal in fire surveillance, search and rescue missions, and hazardous environment assessments. Enhanced aerial intelligence improves decision-making and optimizes resource deployment. However, persistent issues such as legal constraints, cybersecurity risks, and operator training gaps continue to hinder broader implementation. Originality / Value / Practical implications. This research enriches our understanding of ICT applications in fire and rescue services by delivering a comprehensive evaluation of UAV-based solutions. It underscores the need for robust automation, effective data management, and enhanced interagency collaboration to achieve operational excellence. Recommendations are directed at policymakers, service administrators, and technology developers, emphasizing the importance of standardized integration frameworks aligned with regulatory and cybersecurity standards. The implications extend from immediate operational improvements to long-term strategic planning.


Atslēgas vārdi
UAVs; fire and rescue; ICT solutions; emergency management; digital training
Hipersaite
https://www.augstskola.lv/upload/2025_etECH2025_Abstracts_proceedings_FINAL_UPD_060525.pdf

Politika, V., Pundure, J., Šišovs, A., Tambovceva, T. Integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the Digital Transformation of Fire and Rescue Services. No: Emerging Trends in Economics, Culture and Humanities (etECH2025): Abstracts Proceedings, Latvija, Riga, 23.-24. aprīlis, 2025. Riga: EKA University of Applied Sciences/ Alberta College, 2025, 98.-98.lpp. e-ISBN 978-9984-24-263-7.

Publikācijas valoda
English (en)
RTU Zinātniskā bibliotēka.
E-pasts: uzzinas@rtu.lv; Tālr: +371 28399196