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FDNY installs AI cameras in NYC parks to detect brush fires faster
By
Phil Corso
Published Oct 23, 2025
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Courtesy FDNY
By
Phil Corso
Published Oct 23, 2025
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With brush fire risk rising across New York, the FDNY is turning to artificial intelligence to help stop fires before they spread.
The department has installed solar-powered cameras in several city parks, including Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, Highbridge Park in Manhattan and Marine Park Golf Course in Brooklyn. The department said the cameras use AI to detect smoke and flames in real time, even in remote areas, and stream video back to the FDNY’s command center.
“These cameras serve as an early warning system, capable of identifying smoke or flame activity in real time, even in remote or high-risk areas,” FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker said. “This is about using innovative tools to protect our communities and our members — helping us detect and extinguish fires faster, before they have a chance to spread.”
The move comes after a historic surge in brush fires last year that scorched dozens of city parks and prompted new wildfire response plans from the City Council.
Officials have said that changing weather patterns and drought conditions have made even urban forests vulnerable to fast-moving flames.
The new camera rollout also coincides with a statewide burn ban issued earlier this month, as dry, windy conditions increase the risk of wildfires across the region.
The FDNY said it’s reviewing additional park locations for camera placement.
The department urged New Yorkers to avoid open flames, properly discard cigarettes and call 911 immediately at the first sign of fire.
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new york city
public safety
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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