Pune: Artificial intelligence (AI) can make security surveillance more effective by enabling real-time monitoring, early detection of suspicious activity and faster emergency response, said Santosh Warick, director of the Maharashtra Fire Services and chief fire officer of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).Speaking at the PSP-ASIS Conclave, organised by Pune Security Professionals (PSP) and the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) around the theme ‘AI in Security’, Warick highlighted the potential of AI in strengthening building security, fire prevention and emergency management, said organisers in a statement.“AI can be used to monitor crowds in factories, offices and malls, while also improving the management of security systems. It can help monitor fire safety installations in buildings and facilitate quicker responses during emergencies,” Warick said.He explained that fire detection systems, alarms, hydrants and sprinkler systems equipped with sensors can generate alerts during emergencies, helping fire services respond more quickly. He also referred to amendments made to the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Measures Act in 2023, highlighting the importance of strengthening fire safety mechanisms in buildings.Brigadier Preetpal Singh, National Head of Security, Bank of Baroda, highlighted the need for security professionals to understand both the opportunities and risks associated with AI.The discussions also highlighted the importance of adapting security practices to emerging technologies and evolving threats.In his introductory remarks, Sunil Beedlam, co-founder of PSP, said the forum brings together professionals working in corporate, industrial and technology security, risk management and analysis. Its discussions cover geopolitical developments affecting security, challenges related to security personnel, access control systems and emergency preparedness.
