Abdulkareem Sikiru Bayo is a GIS analyst with over 10 years of experience. In his last engagement in Nigeria, he was seconded to Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) by E-Health Africa as a GIS coordinator to manage the organisation’s GIS system and also build staff capacity in geospatial data analytics. Currently in the United States of America, working as a GIS analyst with the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, he shares in this interview with PAUL OMOROGBE how fire and emergency services in Nigeria can benefit from the use of GIS.
What is GIS all about and how does it relate to fire rescue management services?
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are systems designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyse, manage, and present spatial or geographic data. In fire rescue management, GIS plays a crucial role by providing detailed and real-time spatial information that assists in decision-making processes, resource allocation, and strategic planning. For instance, during fire incidents, GIS can help map out the spread of fire, identify affected areas, and locate resources and evacuation routes, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of rescue operations.
How does the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) use GIS?
At AFRD, we utilise GIS in various ways to enhance our operations. We develop ArcGIS Online and Portal Web maps and apps that provide real-time data and situational awareness during emergencies. GIS helps us to model the truck drive time within and outside the city of Atlanta boundary. We manage geospatial projects, integrating data from sources like Image Trend and CAD files to create detailed structural models. These models help us assess building integrity and plan rescue operations. GIS also supports our multi-department enterprise system, allowing seamless data sharing and coordination across different emergency services.
Does AFRD conform to global standards in its use of GIS?
AFRD adheres to global standards by following best practices in GIS data management and application development. We utilise Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI)’s suite of tools which are widely recognised and used in the GIS community. Our workflows incorporate data integrity, accuracy, and interoperability, ensuring that our GIS solutions are reliable and compatible with other systems. Additionally, we stay updated with the latest advancements in GIS technology and continuously train our personnel to maintain high standards of operation.
How does GIS data integration help AFRD’s operations?
During large-scale fire incidents, AFRD uses integrated 3D geospatial data to assess the structural integrity of buildings and plan rescue operations. This data helps identify safe entry and exit points, potential hazards, and optimal resource deployment locations. In Nigeria, adopting similar data integration practices could greatly enhance the safety and effectiveness of fire and medical emergency responses, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
How can Nigeria benefit from strategies and practices implemented by AFRD?
Nigeria can benefit in several ways. Firstly, Nigerian emergency services can improve their responsiveness and coordination by adopting real-time data mapping and analysis, similar to AFRD’s practices. Implementing a centralised GIS platform that consolidates data from different sources will provide a comprehensive view of emergency situations, enhancing decision-making and resource allocation. Moreover, integrating 3D geospatial data can assist in planning rescue operations and assessing structural integrity, particularly in urban areas.
What specific strategies can Nigeria implement to improve its fire and medical emergency services using GIS?
Nigeria should focus on developing a centralised GIS platform for real-time data integration and sharing. This platform should include interactive maps and dashboards for situational awareness. Training and capacity building are essential, so investing in continuous training programmes for emergency management personnel is crucial. Establishing inter-agency collaboration frameworks to facilitate data sharing and coordination will also enhance the overall effectiveness of emergency management.
How can Nigeria ensure public engagement and awareness through GIS?
Public engagement and awareness are vital. AFRD uses GIS to create public-facing platforms that provide real-time information on emergencies, evacuation routes, and safety resources. Nigeria can develop similar platforms to inform the public during emergencies, guiding them to safe locations and providing critical updates. Public awareness campaigns can educate citizens on how to use these platforms and the importance of GIS in emergency management. I am confident that with the right investments in technology, training, and collaboration, Nigeria can build a more resilient and responsive emergency management system.
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