VIDEO: The Wilmore Fire Department (WFD) is getting ready to experience the world from a bird’s-eye view. The fire department recently added a drone to its toolbox, expanding its ability to serve the community safely and effectively during emergencies. For four to five years, Assistant Fire Chief Mike Ledford has been waiting to start a drone program.
Last week, the opportunity came calling when a drone was donated by the fire department’s current chief. “Like it or not, drones are a prominent feature in public safety. So, we can either resist or we can embrace it and use it for purposes that, you know, align with our department,” said Assistant Fire Chief Ledford.
Right now, the department has one FAA Part 107 licensed drone operator on staff. Assistant Chief Ledford said with this new tool, the drone will be able to scan large or difficult-to-access areas quickly from the air, playing a key role in search and rescue operations.