Using Real-Time Sensor Data to Support Incident Commanders Decision-Making Process

Abstract

This thesis examines how real-time sensor data from building systems can support the decision-making process of Incident Commanders during fire interventions. The study focuses on the potential of digital information, particularly smoke detector activation data presented through a visual interface.

The research was conducted through two simulated fire scenarios in a familiar public building (Söderslättshallen) in Trelleborg, Sweden. Eight incident commanders from the Trelleborg Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) participated in the simulations. The participants acted in their role as an incident commander and were asked to lead the response remotely, using both traditional pre-incident plans (swe: Insatsplan) and additional real-time sensor data. This case study in an existing building in Trelleborg is partly connected to an ongoing SFPE project at Lund University, in which different levels of information have been studied in fictional buildings.

Results show that the additional information material was generally useful and it did have an influence on the participants’ actions. Most participants found it supported their decision-making and stated they would like to have access to such material during real incidents. Although some expressed concerns about leading remotely and the need for verifying digital data, the majority trusted the provided information and used it to form early decisions. Results from the study case are in line results from ongoing SFPE project with fictive buildings.

The findings suggest that integrating real-time building data into FRS operations has the potential to enhance decision-making. However, implementation must be trustworthy, and the information has to be easy to interpret effectively. The Levels of Information (LOI) framework was used to classify the type of data available, helping to structure the discussion around digital support tools
for FRSs.

While the sample size was limited, this case study provides initial insights into how digital tools can be developed to assist incident commanders in making rapid and effective decisions under pressure.

Popular Abstract

How can firefighters and especially incident commanders make decisions before even stepping into a burning building? This study explores how real-time sensor data from buildings, example activated smoke detectors, can help incident commanders make decisions during fire interventions, even before the first response unit arrives on the scene.

The research was carried out in collaboration with the Trelleborg Fire and Rescue Service in Sweden. Eight experienced incident commanders participated in simulated fire scenarios in a public building they were familiar with. They were asked to lead the response remotely using both traditional emergency and intervention plans (swe: instatsplan) and a digital interface showing real-time sensor data from the building (known as Level of Information 2, or LOI 2).

The results show that most participants found the digital information helpful, trustworthy, and operationally relevant. The visual interface allowed them to make faster initial decisions, such as where to send crews or whether evacuation had begun. However, some participants still preferred to confirm digital data with physical observations, and leading remotely felt unfamiliar for some of the incident commanders. These findings highlight both the potential and the challenges of introducing new digital tools into the fireground.

The study used the “Levels of Information” (LOI) framework to structure the data, ranging from non-interactive documents (LOI 1) to real-time sensor data (LOI 2) and future predictive systems (LOI 3). Real-time data (LOI 2) has the potential to bridge current information gaps and support incident commanders with their decision-making process.

Because the study was limited to one location and a small group, broader research is needed. It is suggested that studies should include more regions across Sweden, involve different command levels, and even expand internationally.

The next step in research should also explore predictive systems (LOI 3), which can forecast fire development or structural risks. However, it is crucial that any system developed is both accurate and trusted by the users, especially in high-stress, unpredictable events. Nevertheless, before advancing to LOI 3, this study indicates that even the implementation of LOI 2, providing remote access to fire safety-related information from the building, can offer significant benefits to fire and rescue services during interventions.

This thesis offers practical evidence that real-time sensor data from buildings can support decision-making process on the scene, and suggests that future investment in such systems could significantly benefit fire and rescue services.

• author: Pasto, Kati
• supervisor: Nils Johansson
• organization: Division of Fire Safety Engineering
• course: VBRM05 20251
• year: 2025
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Technology and Engineering
• keywords: Smart firefighting, incident commander, real-time sensor data utilisation
• publication/series: LUTVDG/TVBB
• report number: 5746
• other publication id: LUTVDG/TVBB--5746--SE
• language: English
• id: 9191719
• date added to LUP: 2025-06-05 11:09:06
• date last changed: 2025-06-05 11:09:06