Drones reporting to duty as first responders in western Texas

The Odessa Police Department in western Texas says it has received authorization from the FAA to launch the largest public safety Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program in the United States. The department is now ready to conduct a year-long pilot program, exploring the advantages of an eye in the sky during public safety initiatives.

Drones as First Responders (DFR)

Using a drone as a first responder is a unique but highly successful concept in public safety, wherein a drone is sent to the location of a reported incident to stream live video; even before the first responders on the ground arrive on the scene, they have access to data that would allow them to make better decisions.

Many police departments say that they do not have enough officers. As such, the trial in Odessa will have a special emphasis on collecting and analyzing data on the cost savings of a DFR program, as well as the logistical implications of being able to clear lower priority calls…