Utah Considers Using Drones with Emergency First Responders
The drones would take photos and deliver supplies to people as directed by emergency personnel.
The emergency response drones would travel up to 45 miles per hour and weigh six pounds.
Much has been made about drones being used illegally and dangerously. But in Utah, the hope is drones can help save lives in the event of an emergency.
As FOX 13 reports, Utah might employ drones to assist first responders by locating victims. They even could use a two-way radio to communicate with the victim.
“A chance to fly around and, combined with still photos, create a video for the emergency responders,” said Joe Dougherty, a spokesman from the Utah Department of Emergency Management.
Dave Jeltema of Utah Drone Imaging said drones have the precision to get extremely close to victims as first responders make their way to the scene.
“We can deliver a two-way radio, we can deliver even emergency supplies, water, first aid stuff with a drone,” he said.
The drone would weigh six pounds and can travel up to 45 miles per hour, and Dougherty said the cost would be far cheaper than other alternatives, such as a helicopter response.
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