Expanding Wildfire Detection Capabilities in California
San Jose Water, Santa Clara County FireSafe Council Expands Partnership with OroraTech
The Santa Clara County FireSafe Council (SCCFSC), an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit, and San Jose Water (SJW) have announced an expansion of their early wildfire detection network partnership with the addition of OroraTech’s Wildfire Solution platform for detection and monitoring. This provides satellite-based wildfire intelligence with the ability to map and predict the spread of outbreaks over time, helping inform evacuation decisions by agency partners.
"The earlier (a) wildfire is detected, the sooner you can act, including alerting customers and the fire service agencies."
Seth Schalet, Santa Clara County FireSafe Council
Jared Lewis, Manager of Environmental Planning and Natural Resources at San Jose Water, said the recent events in Southern California underscore the vital role of water utilities in fostering a coordinated and collaborative approach to wildfire mitigation. "By harnessing advanced technology, we are enhancing water system resilience and focusing on the earliest stages of wildfire, where rapid detection and response are most critical. Our efforts aim to strengthen wildfire preparedness, minimize risk, and protect communities and water supply when it matters most." Lewis said.
“Over the last several years, we have helped San Jose Water execute their land stewardship strategy which includes increasing forest health and reducing wildfire risk," said Seth Schalet, CEO of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council. "The earlier (a) wildfire is detected, the sooner you can act, including alerting customers and the fire service agencies. We are grateful for our partnership with San Jose Water and OroraTech as their California reseller, bringing this first of its kind satellite-based wildfire monitoring to the region.”
“We’re excited about our partnership with Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, to bring our Wildfire Detection and Monitoring Solution to Silicon Valley and help San Jose Water protect their infrastructure, watershed and customers from wildfire,” said Steve Maisonet, OroraTech’s US Sales Director.
Since 2022, OroraTech has established a comprehensive global monitoring network, delivering real-time situational awareness and prompt risk alerts. The system detects fires of any scale, day or night, ensuring timely action. Founded in 2018, OroraTech is headquartered in Munich, Germany, with operations in Canada, Brazil, Australia, and Greece.