Operational Fire Management System (OFMS): A Sensor-Integrated Framework for Enhanced Fireground Situational Awareness

This paper presents the design, development, and field testing of an Operational Fire Management System (OFMS) aimed at enhancing situational awareness and improving the safety and efficiency of firefighting operations. The system integrates real-time intelligence and remote monitoring to provide emergency management personnel and first responders with accurate information on vehicle location, communication status, and water level monitoring. Developed in collaboration with the Australian Capital Territory Rural Fire Service (ACT RFS), the OFMS prototype encompasses three core subsystems: the Monitoring and Environmental Sensing Subsystem (MESS), the Communication and Vital Monitoring Subsystem (CVMS), and the Command-and-Control Interface Subsystem (CCIS). MESS introduces a tilt-compensated ultrasonic algorithm for accurate water level estimation in moving fire trucks, CVMS leverages an open-source smartwatch with LoRa communication for real-time physiological tracking, and CCIS offers a cloud-based interface for live visualisation and coordination. Together, these subsystems form a practical and scalable framework for supporting frontline operations, particularly in rural firefighting contexts where vehicles are required to operate off-road and deliver large volumes of water to isolated locations. By providing real-time visibility of resource availability and crew status, the system strengthens operational coordination and decision-making in environments where connectivity is often limited. This paper discusses the design and implementation of the prototype, highlights key performance results, and outlines opportunities for future development, including improved environmental resilience, expanded sensor integration, and multi-agency interoperability. The findings confirm that the OFMS represents a novel and field-ready approach to fireground management, empowering firefighting teams to respond more effectively to emergencies and better protect lives, property, and the environment.