New Technology Aims to Enhance Emergency Response Times
The Hempstead Police Department announced plans to deploy a new Drone-as-First-Responder (DFR) system later this year. This initiative, powered by the Flock Aerodome DFR system from Flock Safety, will mark the first such deployment in New York State.
Faster and Safer Emergency Responses
The Flock Aerodome DFR system uses drones stationed at automated, battery-swapping docks across Hempstead. These drones can respond to emergency incidents and service calls within a 4-mile radius, offering an average response time of just 85 seconds. This rapid deployment provides immediate visual access to emergency scenes, which is faster and more efficient than traditional police air resources.
Police Chief Richard Holland expressed optimism about the system’s potential. “Hempstead PD has long been at the forefront of high-tech policing, and we’re excited to see the public safety benefits this gamechanging DFR system will bring to our village,” he said.
The integration of drones into emergency response workflows aims to enhance officer safety, de-escalate tense situations, and reduce response times. Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley highlighted the system’s role in public safety innovation. “Drone-as-First-Responder programs will play a central role in the future of public safety, speeding emergency response, de-escalating dangerous situations, and getting to closed cases faster,” said Langley.
Seamless Integration with Existing Systems
The Flock Aerodome DFR system connects seamlessly with the Hempstead Police Department’s existing technology. It integrates with Flock Safety’s License Plate Reader (LPR) system and video cameras, which are managed through the department’s Real-Time Crime Center.
This integration enables faster action in scenarios such as identifying stolen vehicles, locating missing persons, or responding to alerts about known offenders. By linking multiple tools, the department aims to improve its efficiency and effectiveness in serving the community.
About Flock Safety
Flock Safety provides a technology platform focused on crime prevention and community safety. Its solutions are utilized by more than 5,000 communities across the United States. The Hempstead Police Department’s adoption of this innovative DFR system underscores its commitment to advancing public safety through cutting-edge technology.
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Read more:
- Flock Safety Acquires Uniform Sierra Aerospace: Enhancing Drone Technology for Public Safety
- Flock Safety Expands Capabilities with Acquisition of Aerodome
- Aerodome and Flock Safety Partner to Expand Drone-As-First-Responder Technology
Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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