Nassau police unveil drone equipped with water rescue device
The drones are deployed directly to someone in distress in the water and help keep them afloat, buying valuable time until first responders arrive.
A lifesaving flotation device delivered from the air. That's the latest tool Nassau County police unveiled as part of their Drone as First Responder program.
While summer may be winding down, Nassau County police say they're continuing efforts to keep people safe in the water. Officials showed off the program's newest ability Thursday, displaying how drones equipped with life-saving flotation devices can respond to water emergencies.
The drones are deployed directly to someone in distress in the water and help keep them afloat, buying valuable time until first responders arrive. Police say every second counts during a water rescue.
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said the department currently has eight drones deployed across the county, including the one launched off Long Beach City Hall for the Thursday demonstration.
Ryder said the fleet is expected to grow to 24 drones by the spring, all funded through asset forfeiture funds.
The drones are operated by FAA-certified pilots. Officials say high winds and heavy rain are the few conditions that can hinder them being sent to a scene.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said he believes Nassau is the first law enforcement agency in the country to have a program like this.
