Delta Police Department Launches Innovative "Drone as First Responder" Program

Thursday, Jul 25, 2024
News Release

Delta, BC – The Delta Police Department is announcing the launch of a new initiative: "Drone as First Responder" (DFR) program. This innovative tool aims to enhance community safety and well-being by deploying drones as an immediate response tool in certain emergency situations, improving response times to certain calls for service/police response.

 

Defining the "Drone as First Responder" Program

The DFR program leverages advanced drone technology to provide rapid situational awareness during critical incidents. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and real-time video streaming capabilities, the drone will be dispatched to the scene of emergencies, allowing officers to assess situations from the air before arriving on the ground. This will enable faster and more informed decision-making, ultimately improving response times and outcomes.

 

Ensuring Privacy Protection

The Delta Police Department wishes to highlight that a DFR drone’s camera does not record as it flies to its response zone.  Camera recording begins only when the drone operator determines there is evidentiary value.  

The DFR program builds on the Delta Police Department’s existing use of drones for public safety and investigative response.  The program is informed by a comprehensive Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA), ensuring that all drone use by the Delta Police Department complies with legal privacy requirements and fosters public trust.  Further, department policy governs drone use, ensuring that drones are deployed only in appropriate situations, and that any recorded data is handled confidentially and protected against unauthorized disclosure.  The Delta Police Department is committed to transparency and will continuously engage with the community to address any concerns.

Drone, Dock, Drone as First Responder, Delta Police, Innovation, Community Safety and Well-Being

Expectations from the Program

The DFR program is expected to enhance the department’s ability to respond to emergencies, such as critical incidents. By providing real-time aerial perspectives, the drones will support officers in making quicker and more effective decisions, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage. The program will also serve as a force multiplier, allowing the department to cover larger areas more efficiently.

 

Example:

  • Call for service initiated
  • Drone operator classifies call, makes decision to launch
  • Operator launches drone from dock, regardless of operator’s physical location
  • Drone arrives on scene prior to first responder attendance
  • Operator maintains conduct of call until other responders are able to make contact with involved parties

 

Promoting Community Safety and Well-Being Through Collaboration and Innovation

The Delta Police Department believes that community safety and well-being are best achieved through collaboration, and innovation. The DFR program embodies these principles by incorporating cutting-edge technology and fostering partnerships with technology experts on the development and implementation of this initiative. The department is committed to building a safer community for all.

 

Leading the Way in Technology and Innovation

The Delta Police Department continues to be at the forefront of employing technology and innovation in its operations. The launch of the DFR program is the latest example of the department's dedication to leveraging modern tools to enhance public safety. By staying ahead of technological advancements, the department aims to set a benchmark for law enforcement agencies nationwide.

The DFR program is an additional component that brings new capabilities to the DPD’s existing drone program already in use.

 

For more information about the "Drone as First Responder" program, please contact:

 

A/Insp. James Sandberg

Public Affairs Manager

Delta Police Department

Email: [email protected]