This NJ City Is Using Drones To Battle Crime, Fight Fires

EAST ORANGE, NJ — It never hurts to have a different viewpoint when an emergency hits. This is the philosophy that East Orange is banking on as it rolls out its new drone-powered defense program.

City officials recently announced that East Orange will be using drones as part of a “first line of defense” during local police and fire emergencies.

The drones – which can fly as high as 400 feet – will act as an extra set of “eyes” that can help to create an initial plan of attack during critical incidents, Department of Public Safety Director Maurice Boyd said.

The drones provide real-time aerial views of emergency scenes, allowing command teams to assess hazards and make faster, safer decisions. In addition, thermal imaging cameras equipped on drones can locate trapped victims or detect hotspots invisible to the naked eye.

The new initiative was made possible through funds acquired from asset forfeitures.

Currently, about a dozen public safety personnel have achieved certification as FAA drone operators under the Part 107 Licensing Program, city officials said.

Boyd said the plan is to integrate drone operation as a routine practice in both police and fire response efforts. Having access to information ahead of arrival on the scene will very likely spare time, reduce injuries and save lives, he added.

“This represents the future of public safety, and East Orange is proud to be among the cities leading the way,” Boyd said.

Fire Chief André Williams said the use of drones can open up an entirely new perspective on firefighting.

“With the ability to survey large areas from above, identify hotspots and assess risks in real time, drones enable us to respond more effectively during emergencies,” Williams said.

According to Police Chief Phyllis Bindi, public safety teams will also have the opportunity to meticulously examine footage of an entire scene – from the initial moments of the incident to its end.

“By thoroughly reviewing the footage, we will be able to analyze actions, note any missteps, and refine strategies for future, more effective responses,” Bindi said.

“As the demands on first responders grow more complex, we decided to take technology to the skies to provide additional support,” Mayor Ted Green said.

“We are able to send a drone to an emergency anywhere in the city within four seconds flat,” Green said. “That’s a game changer.”

• See Related: East Orange’s Free Drone Pilot Training Program Is Taking Off

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