RESPO-C

The project envisions exploring the effectiveness of managing information between data sources by using a citizen engagement mobile platform that we have already developed and demonstrating their real-world performance and effectiveness in a real-life scenario with the support of Essex University and the Hellenic Rescue Team. The main end users of the application are citizens living close to or in forested areas, as well as citizens that spend time in those areas and volunteering groups. By providing real-time information about raging fires and how to prevent and react to wildfires, citizens can act more engaged and responsible, which consequently aids volunteering groups in fighting fires.

The project progress during the first six months included identifying and validating the modules and content to be used in the mobile application for forest fire education and reporting. After completing the information collection and validation, the content has been implemented and added to the app.

The initial security assessment has been completed, this included a static and dynamic analysis of the tool and alignment to the OWASP Mobile Application Security Verification Standard (MASVS), GDPR and ISO/IEC 27034-1:2011.

During the RESPO-C project period, our team has focused on creating a user-friendly and effective solution that empowers citizens to contribute to fire prevention and management efforts. We successfully developed a holistic fire management application that allows users to learn about different regulations and policies based on their geographical locations, receive real-time updates as well as access educational resources on fire safety. Various users participated in successful pilot testing of the application. The pilot testing phase received positive feedback from users, highlighting the app’s ease of use and effectiveness in improving fire management practices. We conducted several social media campaigns to raise awareness about the application, using platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These campaigns reached a high number of individuals, resulting in a growing user base and enhanced community involvement (as we capture it from the analytics report in google play and apple stores).

Through our collaboration with MHK, we received cybersecurity consultation services, ensuring that the application met high standards of security and privacy. This collaboration made the application ready for distribution on Google Play and iOS channels, achieving a level of readiness that guarantees user data security and privacy, thus enhancing trust and adoption among users.

Moving forward, we plan to continue promoting the app to reach more communities, particularly in fire-prone regions. We aim to incorporate additional features based on user feedback, such as advanced predictive analytics and integration with geospatial alert services. We will also try to establish new collaborations with environmental agencies (such as COPERNICUS), fire departments, and community organizations to further the app’s reach and effectiveness.