VIDEO: The City of Warren is using a first-of-its-kind drone program to get eyes on emergencies before first responders arrive on scene. From high-priority 911 calls to search and rescue missions, Warren Police Commissioner Eric Hawkins says the drone first responder program is already changing how the city responds to emergencies. “This is just another tool that allows us to leverage technology,” Hawkins said.
Under a special waiver from the FAA, the drones are flown by remote licensed pilots who provide live updates from fire and police scenes. According to Warren officials, the drones can travel up to 6 miles from base at 45 miles per hour, slashing response times.
The drones are strategically based at six fire stations throughout the city and at Warren Police Headquarters.
Commissioner Hawkins says the program is the first of its kind in the state by combining police and fire response.
“It’s allowing us both to operate much more impactful and to serve this community in a way that no other communities in terms of public safety are being served in this country,” Hawkins said.