ROSSVILLE, Kan. (WIBW) - First responders and community leaders gathered in Rossville Wednesday, Oct. 38, for a demonstration of new drone technology.
The group is studying advanced uses for unmanned aerial systems to give real-time views in scenarios like tornados and floods. Drone video can now be accessed remotely in real time -- allowing leaders and first responders to make informed decisions in those situations. They can use drone footage to locate impassible roads, bridges and active fires -- allowing first responders to reach the damaged areas without having to backtrack.
“Drones are incredibly powerful tools, to give first responders and senior leaders better situational awareness of what has happened much more quickly.” State of Kansas, Director of Aviation, Bob Brock says.
Beyond -- a partnership between KDOT and the FAA -- focuses on situations where the drones go beyond the sight of their operator. This partnership is made possible in cooperation with AT&T First Net, Verizon Response, Vigilent and Lemasters Group.