In this Today’s Tip, Gordon Graham discusses how Drone as a First Responder (DFR) programs are reshaping law enforcement response strategies. Once reserved for large departments with aviation units, drone programs are now increasingly viable for agencies of all sizes thanks to advancements in technology and FAA policy changes.
DFR programs allow drones to arrive on scene before officers, providing real-time intelligence that enhances decision-making, improves response times, and supports officer safety. With proper planning and FAA authorization, departments can strategically deploy drones throughout their jurisdictions to better manage risk and allocate resources more effectively.
Questions for discussion:
- How could your agency use drones to enhance officer safety and improve on-scene awareness before units arrive?
- What policy considerations should you address to ensure drone usage aligns with FAA regulations and community expectations?
- Are there specific call types or incident trends in your jurisdiction that would benefit from a DFR deployment model?
- How can you prepare officers and dispatchers to integrate drone intelligence into their decision-making during dynamic calls?
- What metrics should you track to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of a DFR program on response times and outcomes?
Get more tips from Gordon here.
NEXT: In this on-demand webinar, law enforcement leaders and drone experts break down how agencies can successfully launch, scale and optimize a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program.
