.svg)
What Is Torch?
We've worked at Microsoft. We've taught at UC Berkeley. We've led startups worth $300 million
Scroll to explore
Torch is the most important project of our lifetimes.
Our story
We felt shocked and helpless during the Napa Valley fire…that's when the idea for Torch was born.
As a Bay Area resident, Vasya witnessed the horrific 2017 Napa Valley fires burn entire communities down to the ground. For weeks, hazy smoke lingered in the sky. Vasya was struck with the realization: ~“Why isn’t there a mainstream solution to detect outdoor fires quickly and accurately?”~
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
This is when Torch’s revolutionary concept was born: ~Using multiple sensors in one solar-powered device – to recognize outdoor fires early~. Vasya demonstrated this concept at Intel’s International Science Fair, winning the top award. Judges passionately encouraged Vasya to turn his project into a real fire detection product which could help mitigate the fire crisis.
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
On the other side of the San Francisco Bay Area, Michael observed similarly chilling scenes: 2 weeks of pitch black darkness in daytime San Francisco. Horrific air pollution for months. ~An atmosphere he describes as “almost post-apocalyptic”~.
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
Soon, the Torch founding team came together: a ~University of Pennsylvania student, a PhD physicist, and a successful entrepreneur~ – combining talents and expertise to develop a crucial solution.
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
The team continues to grow but the focus remains the same: ~create an early-stage outdoor fire detection solution that is affordable to all~. We are conscious that outdoor fires have left a damaging mark on the health of citizens and on the environment. That’s why Torch Sensors empower users to detect fires early and prevent disaster at the start.
%20(1).jpg)
%20(1).jpg)
We won’t stop until Torch covers every piece of fire-prone land.
Let’s finally reduce the dangerous impact of outdoor fires on the climate
Torch's mission is clear: to prevent the catastrophic losses caused by wildfires
We are driven by the climate crisis – every year, forest fires release around 6.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In fact, around 20% of CO2 emissions worldwide are caused by unwanted wildfires.
.jpg)
Have a question?
FAQ
How was the Torch technology tested?
We have done a number of short and longer-term tests across various prescribed burning locations in California: mainly in Sonoma, Napa Valley, and Butte counties. Our focus during testing was minimizing the time between a fire starting and our sensors being able to detect it. We were able to achieve remarkably accurate results, where some sensors were able to detect a flame even before it was visible with a human eye. We’re continuing to perform a wide range of testing on various burns and geographies to maximize Torch’s accuracy.
Are the ever false alarms?
An intelligent algorithm analyzes multiple variables in real-time to give both line-of-site and non-line-of-site measurements. Moreover, Torch's what analyzes the dynamic changes in sensor readings, looking for time-based clues of a fire. For example, the device tracks the relative location of the sun, can discern between fog and smoke, and doesn’t sound a warning until multiple variables have been confirmed. Potential false positives such as other heat sources, bright light, sun reflections, fog, and many others were thoroughly tested by our team.
How durable are the Torch Sensors?
Each Torch Sensor automatically runs diagnostics 24/7, so if there’s an issue with the device, an SMS message, and in-app notification will be sent to you. These messages will inform you about the next steps to take.
Is there a warranty?
There is a one-year warranty available. If there is a technical malfunction, you can receive a Torch Sensor replacement.
Is Torch available outside of the United States?
Yes! Torch is available in 90+ countries including Canada, Australia, etc.