Chinese-made Drones to the Rescue: Protecting New York Beachgoers from Sharks

Sharks and beachgoers usually don’t mix well. Off Long Island’s coast, warmer waters have lured increasing numbers of bait fish, attracting sharks in pursuit. While great for marine ecology, it’s nerve-wracking for swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers. But at Jones Beach, officials have found an innovative solution, Chinese-made drones.

Jones Beach, a sprawling 6.5-mile state park, hosts about six million visitors a year. Given recent shark sightings and attacks, the authorities have embraced technology. Their tool of choice? Chinese-made Drones. Starting in 2017, lifeguards, assisted by the New York State Park Police, have used drones to oversee the waters off the beach. Whenever sharks or unexpected marine activity arise, swimmers get a heads-up.

Park Police Captain Rishi Basdeo reportedly shared, “the more drones that are flying in the air, there’s more of a chance of seeing these animals in their natural habitat.” He believes that “just by merely warning…