With bear sightings and attacks continuing to rise across Japan, local governments are turning to AI-powered cameras to help keep residents safe. The system, nicknamed “B Alert,” uses cameras installed near residential areas to automatically detect bears and send images to officials by email. Authorities say warnings to residents can now be issued more than 30 minutes faster than before.
Prefectures including Gunma, Toyama, and Ishikawa have adopted the system, along with cities like Fukui and Kobe. It’s not even new; the technology was developed after a power company worker was attacked by a bear in 2019. Officials say the system helps save time and labor at a time when staff shortages are a challenge.
Source: Japan Today
