Drones have matured from toys into tools, and they have the ability to save lives in emergency situations. Recently, the US has faced a slew of traumatic events, could drones have helped in those situations? Today, drones can provide medical support, helping with surveying and in oil spills; in the future, they could be key in drone based telemedicine. Drones are a transformative technology that is creating new opportunities for trained drone operators.
58 people were killed and nearly 500 others were injured, authorities say, when a gunman fired on the Route 91 country music festival. As we mourn, some ask if drones could help improve safety at events like this? While many disagree, some police agencies are moving forward and already purchasing drones; 167 such agencies bought drones in 2016. Other agencies are speaking out about using drones for similar upcoming events.
Tropical Storm Harvey, Credit: NASA Tropical Storm Harvey (or Hurricane Harvey, which rolls off the tongue better) hit us and it hit us hard. Many people were under prepared, if prepared at all, and the worst part is that it isn't over. From reading on-line, it's clear, that even in the inclement weather, [...]
Search and rescue dog, Credit: Wikimedia Common Drones have an amazing future helping our first responders. They provide new perspectives, add the ability to see in different conditions, travel where we can't and remove or at least significantly reduce the risk of human life. In the near future I expect to see more [...]
As a drone pilot, what would you do if you suddenly found yourself being arrested and charged with a felony because of where and when you decided to operate your drone? While it might sound a bit far ferfetched, that's exactly what happened to David Beesmer in New York. Beesmer was charged with unlawful surveillance in [...]
Let's face it. We've got some bad actors in the drone community and their behavior is reflecting badly on the community at large. I'm still shocked every time I read about a firefight or other first responder operation being disrupted by a careless drone pilot. Please stop. You aren't going to catch some amazing shot and [...]
I keep seeing more and more stories like "Police using drones to help patrol on busy holiday." Stories that really emphasize the career opportunity that exists for trained drone operators. As more and more groups start taking advantage of the benefits that drones offer, more career opportunities for trained drone operators will be created. It’s [...]
Rural crime can be difficult to stop for a number of obvious reasons. Now, the Lincolnshire Police have decided to fight back using technology. They've invested in state-of-the-art drones, night vision and even more 4x4 vehicles and quad-bikes. In my opinion, articles like this prove that drones have clearly become a valuable tool for today' [...]
In Memphis, Tennessee, a small group of drone operators are breaking the law in Memphis, they are endangering people and it's reflecting negatively on the entire drone community. The most recent incident was a near accident with two medical helicopters carry young patients en route to the hospital. A drone forced the helicopters to land and an ambulance [...]
I've posted a number of times about police and/or fire departments planning to or already using drones. This trend is creating great opportunities for drone experts; this means there is an opportunity for you to turn your hobby into a career. The Chula Vista Police and Fire Departments are planning to use small drones with [...]
