Five robot dogs join the forest fire brigade in Xihu district. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The forest fire brigade in Xihu district of Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, recently caused a real stir when it welcomed five new high-tech recruits in the form of robot dogs.

Local media outlets reported on March 6 that since joining the team earlier this year, the cyber staff have been patrolling Xishan National Forest Park alongside human firefighters, assisting with their fire prevention efforts.

Equipped with smoke sensors, the robot dogs can autonomously detect fire hazards and transmit real-time video footage for a rapid response. They can also engage in fire safety patrols, delivering warnings to visitors.

Operable via remote control, the robots reduce risks for firefighters while enhancing overall efficiency.

Beyond detection, the robot dogs can support firefighting efforts by carrying up to 20 kilograms of equipment uphill and using onboard water cannons to assist in extinguishing fires. Officials plan to further explore their capabilities to improve forest fire prevention and responses.

A robot dog patrols a bamboo forest by itself. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

A robot dog puts out a fire. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]