Fire Detection using Image Processing
with Raspberry Pi
Introduction
Fire accidents can cause severe damage to property and life if not detected early.
Traditional fire detection systems often rely on smoke or heat sensors, which may respond
with delay. This project introduces an efficient and cost-effective solution using image
processing techniques with a Raspberry Pi, capable of detecting fire in real-time by
analyzing visual data. The system uses a mobile phone camera to capture the environment,
eliminating the need for expensive camera modules.
Objective
The main objective of this project is to develop a real-time fire detection system that can:
- Detect fire visually using color analysis.
- Alert users through a buzzer or display message.
- Work efficiently on low-cost hardware like Raspberry Pi.
- Replace traditional sensors with image-based detection.
Components Required
**Hardware:**
- Raspberry Pi 3/4 (with Raspbian OS)
- Mobile phone with IP Webcam app
- Buzzer or LED (for alerts)
- Breadboard and jumper wires (optional)
- Power supply
**Software:**
- Python 3
- OpenCV library
- NumPy
- IP Webcam app (Android)
Methodology
1. Setup and Configuration:
- Raspberry Pi is configured with Python, OpenCV, and GPIO libraries.
- The mobile phone camera is turned into a wireless webcam using the IP Webcam app.
2. Video Capture:
- The live video stream from the mobile is accessed using OpenCV in Python via a direct IP
link.
3. Image Processing:
- Each frame is converted to HSV color space.
- A specific range of HSV values is used to isolate fire-colored regions (red, orange, yellow).
- Contour detection is used to find the area of the fire-like region.
4. Fire Detection Logic:
- If the detected area exceeds a predefined threshold, fire is confirmed.
- A buzzer or LED is triggered to alert the user.
5. Real-Time Monitoring:
- The system continues to monitor frames and detect fire in real time.
Results
The project successfully detects fire-like colors in the camera feed and triggers an alert
when the detected region crosses the defined area threshold. It responds quickly and can be
tested using a flame or a fire simulation video. The use of a mobile camera ensures good
resolution and flexibility in installation.
Advantages
- Cost-effective: Uses existing mobile devices.
- Real-time monitoring: Immediate detection and response.
- Portable and compact: Entire system runs on Raspberry Pi.
- No physical sensors needed: Purely visual detection.
Applications
- Fire safety monitoring in homes, kitchens, server rooms, etc.
- Smart home and IoT fire detection systems.
- Integration with surveillance systems for added safety.
Future Enhancements
- Automatic SMS/Email alerts to emergency contacts.
- Cloud-based monitoring and logging.
- AI-based classification to reduce false positives.
- Integration with sprinkler or fire suppression systems.
Block Diagram
Conclusion
This project demonstrates how image processing and Raspberry Pi can be used to create a
simple yet powerful fire detection system. By using everyday devices like smartphones and
open-source tools, we achieve an affordable, scalable, and intelligent fire safety solution.
