SOPFEU - Equipment

The Société de protection des forêts contre le feu (SOPFEU) makes decisions based on the optimal protection of forests and forest-related resources. SOPFEU has specialized equipment at its disposal to help it accomplish its tasks.

Weather data: every hour, automatic weather stations gather information such as temperature, wind, rainfall and relative humidity.

Overview of forest cover: with the help of a tessellation-based forest information system known as SIFORT, it is possible to know the composition of the forest cover in 14-hectare sections. These data are essential for the fire behaviour forecast program.

Lightning detection: SOPFEU has access to Hydro-Québec’s lightning detection network that enables it to monitor, in real time, sectors hit by thunderstorms.

Exact location: to meet detection and air attack needs, SOPFEU uses an instrument (GPSF) that calls upon global positioning system (GPS) technology.

Forceful initial attack: the fleet of CL-215 and CL-415 water bombers along with helicopters equipped with a water bucket are a major strike force during the initial attack of a fire.

Technological watch: SOPFEU keeps an eye open for new technology developments, such as the use of satellites for remote sensing and telecommunications.

To manage these data, SOPFEU developed the Forest Fire Information System (SIIF). All information is processed. With one quick look at the screen, it is possible to monitor the progress of a specific situation or several activities.

Information on workers, fires and infrastructures are also stored in the SIIF.