As more and more public safety agencies recognize the power of drones to enable faster response times, Drone as First Responder (DFR) systems are being adopted by that many more departments. However, recent news about the first-ever FAA waiver that was granted to the Elk Grove Police with full city coverage highlights what it means to see this value taken to a whole different level. 

While the efficiencies enabled by DFR systems when it comes to an expanded field of view and faster response times are well established, limitations around this value are limited on account of departments having to operate below 200 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) while also incorporating ADS-B data to avoid confliction with crewed aircraft. They also need to utilize visual observers, further limiting the utility of the technology. 

According to Fritz Reber, Director of DFR Consulting at Flock Safety, operating in this manner can make a DFR solution up to 75% less effective for a wide range of emergency responses. Some departments have received approval for radar-assisted operations that remove this limitation, but this usage doesn’t scale. Enabling greater value with a DFR solution is about an understanding and approach that considers both the technology itself as well as the eventual application.   

“To operate above 200 feet AGL—up to the FAA’s maximum of 400 feet—an additional DAA solution beyond ADS-B monitoring is required, typically in the form of radar,” said Reber. “The Flock Safety solution, with its advanced radar technology, automated docking system, and Airspace Awareness Module (ATA), enabled Elk Grove to secure FAA approval for unrestricted operations up to 400 feet across their entire city. This breakthrough eliminated the need for rooftop personnel and allowed for 24/7, all-weather DFR operations, maximizing response capabilities in any emergency. This is what is known as the Holy Grail of DFR, the ability for a public safety agency to remotely fly to any critical incident at anytime, anywhere in their jurisdiction.”

This new BVLOS waiver significantly enhances DFR operations by permitting flights that are twice as high as ones permitted in any previous BVLOS waivers for an entire jurisdiction. It represents a significant step forward in making DFR programs scalable, offering valuable lessons for other police departments. 

It also underscores the department’s commitment to the technology, as the Elk Grove Police Department recently passed a 1000-flight milestone. The news showcases what it takes to see the opportunities associated with drone technology more fully realized.

“Elk Grove has always been a progressive and innovative agency,” Reber told Commercial UAV News. “They understood the value of DFR several years ago and had been exploring the best solution to integrate into their well known Real Time Crime Center. They had long been leaders in the space of Real Time Policing tools and therefore the selection of Aerodome (later acquired by Flock Safety) was a source of pride.”

As more agencies recognize the impact of drones in reducing response times, de-escalating critical incidents, optimizing resource allocation, and ultimately saving lives, public expectations around emergency response will continue to evolve. The public will increasingly expect police departments to leverage drone technology to improve safety, efficiency, and accountability. 

That change in expectation will invite further public input on police plans to use drones as first responders, compelling conversations that focus on exactly how drones are being adopted and utilized. Public safety officials should approach these discussions with specifics that highlight their ability to effectively use DFR solutions in a way that is both effective and scalable. The Elk Grove Police Department's approach can serve as a model for such implementation.

“Elk Grove PD has been transparent in sharing its experience with the community and other agencies, making them a valuable resource for those interested in learning how this waiver enhances public safety operations,” said Reber. “Other agencies can benefit from studying Elk Grove’s approach and engaging with both Flock Safety and Elk Grove PD leadership.”