The sensors also can detect individual missile tests or space launches, as well as large fires and explosions.

Optical sensors are used to detect fires and explosions instantly, which then directs a series of jets and hoses to put out the fire with a concealed substance.

The tower was used through the 1960s, by which time airplanes had largely replaced towers as a means of detecting fires; it is now the only remaining lookout tower in the forest.

The company created the first dual-sensor photoelectric smoke detector, considered to be less prone to false alarms, while still quickly detecting smoldering fires.

They are used to detect fires in buildings where standard point smoke detectors would either be uneconomical or restricted for use by the height of the building.

Optical beam smoke detectors are typically used to detect fires in large commercial and industrial buildings, as components in a larger fire alarm system.

These detectors detect fires and explosions within 3-4 milliseconds due to the UV radiation emitted at the instant of their ignition.

The researchers said that understanding how the beetles detected fires could have practical applications, particularly in developing new types of fire alarms and early warning detectors for forest fires.

The electronic systems have the advantage of providing constant monitoring, and can detect break-ins, fires, floods, carbon monoxide and low temperature.

The new rule proposed by the safety board would be a temporary measure until another methods can be developed that would detect and suppress fires in such compartments.