Wildfires are an emerging worldwide risk, with
climate change causing drastic temperature
changes across the globe, fires are resulting in
ecological destruction, damage to infrastructure and in some cases, harm to life.

Phiri aims to provide an early warning detection system for wildfire in remote locations where terrain is difficult. Working alongside the Mount Mulanje Conservation Trust, who struggle with these issues, Phiri was developed as a system to alert the relevant authorities as to where and when a fire is happening.

Designed around existing thermal imaging cameras, Phiri is adaptable to different cameras dependent on the environment it is situated. Placed on cliff faces, Phiri is out of the way from potential theft or vandalism that could arise from having high value targets monitoring wildfires whilst also making use of high vantage points, ideal for monitoring wildfires.

By utilising cables and pitons, the frame is mounted onto the cliff face, avoiding the use of screws to reduce permanent damage. Solar panels are employed and connected to a 12V battery placed inside the casing alongside the camera.