New approaches to the deployment of fire departments in the response system for higher-alarm fires

Introduction. Current dispatch schedules for fire and rescue units are drawn up on the basis of a fixed order of priority for deploying units according to fire severity levels and, as a rule, do not take into account the location of the incident, the configuration of the road network or the current operational situation. This leads to an increase in the time taken to mobilize personnel and equipment when responding to higher-priority fires.

Aims and Purposes. The aim of the study is to develop a method, as well as models and algorithms, for forming a rational sequence of dispatching fire units. The study addresses the tasks of model development and the design of decision-support algorithms.

Methods. The research is based on systems analysis, mathematical modelling and geoinformation analysis. A method of territorial decomposition of service areas (subareas) is proposed, based on modelling the travel time of operational crews to different locations within the garrison. For real-time decision-making, a lexicographic decision-support model is developed, taking into account travel time, the number of personnel involved in breathing apparatus operations, water tank capacity, fuel consumption, and the risk of adverse events within the service area.

Results and discussion. A territorial decomposition method, an algorithm for constructing a relational data model of dispatch sequences, and a software module for its implementation have been developed. It is shown that the proposed approach reduces the estimated time of assembling units by 30–70 % compared with existing turnout schedules. The lexicographic model provides a justified selection of alternative sets of fire units under current operational conditions and improves operational and tactical response capabilities.

Conclusions. The proposed method, models and algorithms formalize decision-making in fire unit dispatch, ensure a more justified selection of operational crews, and reduce the influence of the human factor. Their application is advisable both in the development of turnout schedules and in dispatcher decision support during real-time response. Further research may focus on expanding the system of dispatch criteria and incorporating artificial intelligence methods.

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