The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and the National Council on Public Safety UAS (NCPSU) have entered a partnership to encourage and promote the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) by public safety agencies.
AUVSI and NCPSU will collaborate to create education and information programs and materials to facilitate the widespread adoption of UAS, also known as drones, among first responders. The partnership will also provide a forum for industry and the public safety community to review and evaluate the latest research and development in unmanned systems technology, as well as the products and services it enables to support mission-critical operations.
“The public safety community was an early adopter of drone technology and understands the many benefits it provides to our nation’s first responders,” said Brian Wynne, president and CEO of AUVSI. “Together, AUVSI and the National Council on Public Safety UAS will provide opportunities for the public safety community and the UAS industry to share ideas on creating tools and applications for police, firefighters, and other professionals who help ensure our safety and protection.”
There are many uses of UAS by public safety agencies. UAS provide firefighters with real-time aerial views of fires that enhance situational awareness. They can quickly survey wide areas of land and water for search-and-rescue missions.
Unmanned systems are also making routine law enforcement duties more efficient, cost-effective and safer, such as conducting accident investigations and assessing traffic flow.
“The National Council on Public Safety UAS is excited about this new partnership with AUVSI to further advance the use of drones by public safety organizations,” said Charles Werner, chair of NCPSU. “AUVSI will help amplify efforts to share UAS information, best practices and training to public safety agencies through its outreach channels and conferences, and its membership.”
