Supervisors info:
«Ειδική_Επ_Καθοδήγηση»
«Μαρτζάκλης Β.» ««M.Sc.Αξιωματικός Πυροσβεστικού Σώματος, Πτυχιούχος Δημόσιας Διοίκησης Παντείου Πανεπιστημίου,Expert E.U. Civil Protection Mechanis »,
Τριμελής Εξεταστική Επιτροπή:
Λέκκας Ευθύμιος, Καθηγητής, Τμήμα Γεωλογίας και Γεωπεριβάλλοντος, ΕΚΠΑ,
Δανάμος Γεώργιος Ε.Δ.Ι.Π. Τμήμα Γεωλογίας και Γεωπεριβάλλοντος ΕΚΠΑ,
Αντωναράκου Ασημίνα Καθηγήτρια Τμήμα Γεωλογίας και Γεωπεριβάλλοντος, ΕΚΠΑ
Summary:
Optimizing the operational management of aerial assets in aerial firefighting necessitates a comprehensive evaluation and strategic recommendations. Key considerations include assessing asset readiness, enhancing communication protocols, integrating advanced GIS technology for real-time monitoring, and refining training programs. Effective resource allocation based on fire characteristics, coupled with weather monitoring and robust risk management, is imperative. Recommendations include establishing a centralized command and control system, investing in cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence, and continually improving training protocols. These measures collectively aim to bolster the efficiency and coordination of aerial firefighting efforts, ensuring a more proactive and effective response to wildfires.
Within the master thesis focusing on the operational management of various aerial assets in aerial firefighting, an exploration of effectiveness and recommendations for improved operational interventions unfolds. The introductory chapter sets the stage by underscoring the growing significance of aerial firefighting in contemporary fire management. In a historical context, the roles played by entities like the Fire Brigade and the Air Force, alongside collaborative efforts from other bodies, are briefly traced. The pivotal role of operational management in ensuring the effectiveness of aerial firefighting operations is acknowledged.
Chapter 2 delves into the nuanced nature of forest fires, categorizing them into ground fires, surface fires, and sweeping fires. This chapter is marked by a meticulous examination of factors influencing the initiation and spread of these fires, involving an in-depth analysis of elements of fire behavior and meteorological conditions. The foundational understanding of the nature of fires cultivated in this chapter is deemed crucial for the formulation of effective operational strategies.
Moving to Chapter 3, attention is directed towards the various types of aerial means employed in aerial firefighting. Helicopters and aircraft emerge as primary tools, each serving distinct roles in fire suppression efforts. The versatility of these aerial assets is explored, covering capabilities in water spraying, fire-fighting equipment drops, and surveillance/reconnaissance. However, this chapter does not shy away from shedding light on the challenges and limitations faced by aerial means, encompassing adverse weather conditions, ground challenges, and coordination issues with ground crews. Recognizing and understanding these limitations is considered indispensable for crafting operational interventions that are both realistic and effective.
Chapter 4 transitions the focus to the management of air assets at the operational level. This encompasses an examination of operational planning and control mechanisms, providing insights into the intricacies involved in coordinating aerial assets during firefighting operations. The tactical-level management of air assets is explored, with specific attention to factors influencing drop effectiveness. This chapter serves as a crucial bridge between the theoretical understanding of aerial firefighting and its practical implementation, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and control in achieving operational objectives.
The fifth and final chapter serves as a culmination, delving into an exploration of successful airborne firefighting operations. Lessons learned from previous operations are subjected to analysis, aiming to identify key success factors and challenges that have been effectively overcome. This retrospective analysis forms the basis for the evaluation of operational effectiveness and the subsequent recommendations provided in the thesis.
In a deeper analysis, the thesis weaves together historical insights, scientific understanding of fire behavior, and a practical evaluation of aerial firefighting operations. The acknowledgment of challenges and limitations, coupled with an emphasis on operational planning and control, demonstrates a nuanced approach to addressing the complex landscape of firefighting. The retrospective analysis in the final chapter adds a layer of practical wisdom, ensuring that recommendations are grounded in the realities of past experiences. Overall, the thesis not only identifies issues but strives to provide a holistic understanding of operational dynamics, laying a foundation for more effective and informed aerial firefighting interventions.
Keywords:
Operational management, Aerial firefighting, Efficiency, Recommendations
