The SAFER-FLOW project, part of the IMAGINE-B5G initiative, is pushing the boundaries of disaster response by leveraging advanced Beyond 5G (B5G) technologies. Designed to enhance Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR), the project integrates IoT sensors, drones, and augmented reality (AR) systems to deliver real-time situational awareness during urban flood emergencies. Aveiro, Portugal, served as the testbed for demonstrating these innovations, aiming to improve disaster readiness and response.

Overview of the Three SAFER-FLOW Trials
The SAFER-FLOW project conducted three successful trials in Aveiro, each targeting key components of flood response:

Trial 1: Infrastructure and Network Validation

In April 2024, the first trial concentrated on deploying Water Level sensors and testing the B5G network infrastructure. These sensors continuously monitored water levels and transmitted real-time data to the Command Control Center (CCC), allowing for timely flood warnings and faster decision-making. Network performance tests confirmed that the infrastructure could handle the low-latency, high-bandwidth requirements essential for real-time data transmission.

Trial 2: Drones and AR Integration

The second trial in May 2024 showcased the integration of drones and AR systems. Drones equipped with high-definition cameras captured real-time aerial footage of flooded areas, which was instantly streamed to the CCC. The AR systems provided search and rescue teams with dynamic overlays of flood maps, guiding them with critical information about safe routes and hazardous zones. This trial demonstrated the platform’s ability to enhance situational awareness and improve the efficiency of response efforts.

Trial 3: Public Showcase and Demonstration

The final trial took place in October 2024, in collaboration with the Municipality of Ílhavo. This public demonstration featured real-time drone flights, AR navigation displays, and wearable technology for first responders, allowing stakeholders to see the SAFER-FLOW platform in action. The event provided valuable insights and feedback from local authorities, further validating the platform’s real-world applicability.

Conclusion

The successful trials of the SAFER-FLOW platform demonstrate its potential to revolutionize flood management using Beyond 5G technologies. By integrating IoT sensors, drones, and AR systems, the project has shown how real-time situational awareness and enhanced communication can improve disaster response.

We invite you to watch our demonstration video here:

Stay tuned for an upcoming showcase with even more advancements.