This is a smart move. When used by first-responder teams, drones can provide support to officers on the ground, offering information before personnel even arrive. In some cases, drones may reach a scene faster than a human responder, delivering real-time information that can help save lives.
More police departments across the state are deploying Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs. The Prosper Police Department launched its DFR program in May. Both Prosper and Frisco are working with Flock Group, a security hardware and software company that focuses on law enforcement. Arlington also expanded its program this year, which was initially created to help respond to fireworks calls during the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.
Dallas is also looking to add DFR capabilities to its fleet and an additional contract with Axon Enterprise, the company that the city currently works with for its drone programs, is scheduled to go before the City Council this week.
According to a presentation from a February Dallas Public Safety Committee meeting, 1,686 U.S. police agencies operate unmanned aircraft systems. These drones are used for disaster response, missing persons, search and rescue missions, as well as for follow-up investigations. DFR programs are a specific application of this technology in situations where an immediate, fast response is required.
As DFR programs expand, cities must confront questions around privacy and what happens to drone footage. Clear policies on when drones can be launched in first-responder scenarios, what they can record and how the footage is stored and accessed are essential as drones become more common in local law enforcement.
For example, first-responder drones are used only to respond to calls and not for general surveillance. The drones don’t record video in transit and only begin recording once they arrive at the scene of a call.
There are scenarios where drones can be important tools for first responders, like in active shooter situations or for traffic accidents. The technology is promising, but it will be most effective when paired with strong training and clear protocols.
Drones can enhance how departments respond to emergencies, but they’re only one part of the public safety toolkit. Hopefully these tools make the jobs of the officers and first responders who show up for this important work every day safer and more efficient.
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