When fire fighters arrive at a fire, one of the priorities is to find a fire hydrant. This may often be a problem as the hydrant and its location bollard may be obscured by undergrowth or parked vehicles. Visibility may also be a problem due to smoke from the fire or simply due to foggy conditions. Stephen’s concept was to develop an identification and location system, which would incorporate a sensor at the hydrant. The sensor would be activated by a hand-held device to enable the fire fighter to quickly locate the hydrant. After being awarded the Invest NI Smart Award, Stephen was able to make a prototype/mock up to demonstrate the concept, but there remained a number of technical and electronic difficulties to resolve.

Making it Happen:

• MTP
• Invest NI - SMART Programme
• Queen's University Belfast - Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering

At an MTP breakfast seminar Stephen met with a Field Officer. The Field Officer quickly moved things forward by involving MTP’s Liaison Officer at Queen’s University who enlisted Dr Edward Swidenbank, of the department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Since Dr Swidenbank’s involvement all the major technical issues have been resolved.

The Result...
Success is never guaranteed in innovative projects; however this one is very exciting with Fire Authorities keen to have access to a solution to a countrywide problem of hydrant location. The solution not only solves this problem but also results in a new and novel fire hydrant management system. Consequently, the product will soon be available in the market place.

Stephen Eastwood:
“Since I met with MTP, this project has really moved forward. MTP’s Liaison Officer at Queen’s identified the required expertise in Dr Edward Swidenbank. I am delighted with the quality and speed of work, which all parties have completed.”