Kentucky fire department launches new drone to boost safety

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Through a partnership with the Free2Hope Foundation, the Pewee Valley Fire Protection District has introduced a new high-tech drone to improve firefighter safety and assist in emergency response. 

Fire officials said the drone includes several features, such as thermal imaging to locate hotspots and monitor fire spread, full-color night vision, and an AI-powered system able to tell the difference between people, animals and equipment.

It also offers a spotlight capable of illuminating up to 2,000 square meters and was designed to fly in all weather conditions for up to 54 minutes per charge.

The device came at no cost to taxpayers, giving the department advanced technology to better assess situations from the air.

"The quicker we can get eyes on a situation, the faster our crews can respond with a safer, more effective action plan— ultimately improving the outcome for everyone involved," Fire Chief Matt York said in a written statement. 

The department has trained four FAA-certified drone pilots and began training additional members. Fire officials said it would be available 24/7 to assist the community during fires, accidents, and other hazardous situations.