Following several active fire seasons, drone technology is playing an increasingly important role in supporting emergency response efforts. Over the past few years, Drone America has had the opportunity to work with the Reno Fire Department on various joint simulations designed to explore how unmanned systems can deliver real value in the field.

These exercises have demonstrated the potential of drones to assist with real-time aerial overwatch, nighttime thermal imaging, and the rapid delivery of critical medical supplies—including AED kits and life-saving medications—to firefighters and paramedics in the field.

“You have drones that can continually fly over a fire situation and give real-time reports on the conditions,” says Chief Dennis Nolan.

In fast-moving emergencies, such drone-assisted responses can reduce deployment times by up to 40 percent.

“I’ve seen people bleed out because we’ve had significant transport times,” Nolan adds.

Drone America President and CEO Mike Richards underscores the mission:

“The true heroes are the men and women who do this every day. Our job is to provide them with the most effective tools and aircraft possible to help reduce the time it takes to locate someone or save a life.”