Chattanooga Launches ‘Drone First Responder Pilot Program’ to Enhance Emergency Response
Photo Courtesy of Chattanooga Police Department
In The Know with Gino…
Chattanooga Police Department has announced the launch of a new Drone First Responder Pilot Program aimed at enhancing emergency response capabilities across the city. This initiative equips officers and first responders with real-time aerial footage during active incidents, allowing for quicker and more informed decision-making, better resource deployment, and improved public safety.
The program features two unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), strategically stationed at Chattanooga Fire Department Stations 4 and 9, located on Curtis Street and 8th Avenue. These locations were chosen based on crime data pinpointing high-violent-crime areas, ensuring the drones can be swiftly dispatched to scenes within their coverage zones.
When emergency calls are received, a police officer in the Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC) at Amnicola Highway activates the drones. The UAS flies directly to the incident scene, providing live video feeds to officers, incident commanders, and other emergency personnel. The drones remain over the scene until the situation stabilizes, after which they return to their designated docks. Importantly, the department emphasizes that these drones are solely used for emergency responses and not for routine patrols or general surveillance. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval allows for operation within a three-mile radius of the docking stations.
The program underscores collaboration between the police and fire departments, with officials highlighting the drones’ role in assessing critical incidents, searching for missing persons, and supporting disaster response efforts—all with the primary goal of preserving life.
City council members representing the districts within the drones’ two-mile flight radius have been informed of the program’s operations, and community engagement efforts have included outreach through neighborhood associations, community groups, and public safety meetings.
CPD’s drone policy strictly prohibits the use of UAS for unwarranted surveillance, harassment, or unrelated activities. All deployments adhere to federal regulations and department policies, with flight data and incident information documented and retained under established protocols.
The drones, manufactured by BRINC, an American company specializing in public safety technology, underwent training and initial test flights starting in late April. The program is now fully operational, with detailed data and updates available on the Chattanooga government website’s Drone First Responder page.
SOURCE: Chattanoogan
