Abstract: A fire detection system includes a color video camera, a frame grabber and a computer processor operative to store and examine a series of image frames of the viewed area. Ultraviolet and infrared detectors produce event signals when energy received exceeds predetermined thresholds. The processor then rapidly evaluates the images from the camera to determine bright area objects, their location, edge profile, edge flicker, stationarity and spectral characteristics as well as spectral flicker to confirm a fire event. Finally, the size of a confirmed fire image is measured as a final criterion for the release of fire suppressant material, either in a limited zone within which the fire is located or within the entire facility.