Drones

[LVFD301]

Anyone successful or trying to get a drone? Something with a small payload to release an inflatable to flood victims, and IR capability?
Which one are you using? We had over 200 water rescues in our district alone during Harvey, to use this for air survey work with the IR would be great. Also great for our BIG brush fires.
Anyone already using one succesfully ?

[tree68]

It's a quantum leap from a drone that will carry a camera to relay images to the ground for size-up, etc, and one that will carry something like a life raft.

Something like the DJI Phantom 4 runs just under two grand. It might carry a light rope/cord across the water, which could pull a heavier rope.

Don't forget the cost of getting people certified - it wouldn't be any fun getting a visit from the FAA after a news report about that great save you made.

[LVFD301]

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/18/w...-swimmers.html This is kind of what we were thinking about. And yes, part 107 is in our future.

[tbzep]

Our county FD bought two drones nearly three years ago. We have several people that have certifications to use them. They still sit unopened. We don't know why. We have FF's that have privately owned drones, but we understand we can't legally use them so we don't.

[fire49]

Our county FD bought two drones nearly three years ago. We have several people that have certifications to use them. They still sit unopened. We don't know why. We have FF's that have privately owned drones, but we understand we can't legally use them so we don't.

So who is holding them??

And why cant someone just go borrow them and start using them???

Great asset

[tbzep]

So who is holding them??

And why cant someone just go borrow them and start using them???

Great asset

The county chief. I have no clue why.

[BB3939]

I would love to hear about FDs using drones and for what. I would like to get one for my department to use for many things, but mainly for assistance with structure fires from all sides and overhead with video and TIC image, wildland fire use, search and rescue, etc. What are other depts. doing. How much training are you getting for pilot operators to legally operate at low levels we would need to operate. Any suggestions on funding/grant funding. Looking for help.