By Police1 Staff
In the event of a harbor fire and resulting oil spill, can drones play a crucial role in emergency response? Federal and local officials are confident that they can.
A coordinated exercise involving the Atlantic City Fire Department, Atlantic City Police Department, United States Coast Guard and the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau demonstrates how drones can enhance public safety. This exercise simulates a fire on a boat in a marina, leading to an oil spill and a potential evacuation.
Drones are deployed to monitor the fire and track the oil spill, sending real-time video to the emergency response command center. They are also used to monitor the marina and surrounding waters for liquid hydrocarbons.
In addition to drones, the Coast Guard deploys boats and helicopters to mirror a real emergency response. This allows first responders to study the interaction of air and water-based craft and ensure safe operations.
The New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau focuses on civilian safety, marine evacuation communications and maintaining perimeter security.
Through collaboration and innovation, this exercise underscores the critical role of drones in modern emergency response, paving the way for safer and more efficient public safety operations.
