Combining hardware, software, and AI for 24/7 fire monitoring.
Each year, fires and natural disasters cause over $350 billion in outdoor damage.
Torch Systems is a startup developing AI-powered sensors that detect outdoor fires at their earliest stage, before they escalate into catastrophic wildfires. Connected to the Torch app, the sensors deliver real-time alerts to your phone within seconds of detecting a flame.
Since 2023, I’ve worked with Vasya Tremsin (CEO) to shape and evolve the Torch Sensors brand identity and digital interfaces, designing intuitive tools that make wildfire detection accessible and immediate.
Role
Lead Designer
Team
CEO, CTO
Timeline
2023 - Present
Skills
User Research
UI/UX Design
Design System
Brand Identity
Motion Design
USER RESEARCH
To identify unmet needs and opportunities within the market, we conducted a survey with 1,046 participants representing diverse ages, occupations, economic classes, and regions across the U.S. This ensured a comprehensive, nationwide perspective.
Through data synthesis and pattern analysis, we defined five primary user groups and three recurring pain points, which directly informed our design direction and solution framework.
When it comes to fire emergencies, every second counts. Our research uncovered three critical gaps that leave users vulnerable.
Critical Data, Poorly Communicated
During emergencies, users are bombarded with complicated visuals and unclear data. Without an intuitive way to interpret threat levels or proximity, vital seconds are lost, putting lives at risk.
No Way to Warn or Help Others
When disaster strikes, people are left to act alone. The lack of real-time community communication prevents neighbors from sharing updates or coordinating efforts.
Information Chaos in a Crisis
In the middle of an emergency, users scramble across apps, news sites, and social media for updates. This fragmented flow of information creates confusion, delays critical decisions, and heightens fear.
After identifying key pain points, we designed a three-point solution framework that prioritizes usability during crisis.
Simplified, Actionable Data
Create intuitive, real-time visualizations that translate fire data into clear, actionable insights. Easily digestible maps, charts, and graphics help users quickly grasp the fire’s location, scale, and potential impact.
Connected Community Network
Enable users to share real-time sensor data with their community. When a fire is detected, nearby residents are instantly notified, allowing the neighborhood to respond together and contain the threat before it escalates.
Unified Emergency Dashboard
Consolidate fire, weather, and alert data into one interface. With all critical information in a single view, users no longer need to switch between multiple apps and sources.
How can we design a platform that keeps users updated on fires in real-time, and help them take action during emergencies?
IDEATION
During ideation, we stepped into the shoes of someone facing a fire crisis. This helped us identify pain points and opportunities to keep users informed, supported, and empowered in high-stress situations.
IDEATION
Throughout our design process, our goal was to streamline and simplify the critical moments of a fire crisis. We aimed to integrate each step seamlessly into the app, making it intuitive for users to access vital information and take action without added stress or effort.
DELIVERABLES
“If we had technology like this, it would help us either modify our response, enhance our response, [or] change our response based on real-time information of a fire spread.”
NEWS
Members of the Torch team travelled to Los Angeles during the 2025 wildfires, assisting first responders in detecting potential re-ignitions and ember fires. Escorted by the LAPD, Torch installed sensors on the Getty Museum, overlooking the entire city.
Torch devices continue to monitor and protect Los Angeles County.
