Skyfire Consulting, the most trusted and experienced public safety UAS consulting group, has announced its collaboration with the Fremont, California Fire and Police Departments to launch the first-of-its-kind joint Drone First Responder (DFR) program in the United States.
The program, approved by the Fremont City Council, has leveraged Skyfire’s expertise in consulting, community engagement, regulatory support (Beyond Visual Line of Site ‘BVLOS’ waiver), and training to enhance public safety and emergency response times.
Enhancing Situational Awareness and Response
The Fremont DFR program utilizes Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) launched from fixed locations to rapidly respond to public safety incidents. These UAVs, piloted by certified professionals, arrive on-scene ahead of first responders, providing critical real-time situational awareness through live-streamed video.
This information empowers responders to make better decisions, de-escalate situations when possible, and identify potential hazards and rescues.
Matt Sloane, Skyfire founder and CEO said, “Our team’s deep experience and commitment to public safety were instrumental in bringing this program to life, and we are confident it will serve the Fremont community well.”
Community Support and Pilot Program Success
With strong community backing, the Fremont Police and Fire Departments conducted a successful pilot program from November 2022 to January 2023.
The program, which deployed UAVs from strategic locations like Parkway Towers, demonstrated the value of DFR in enhancing public safety, reducing response times, and ensuring first responder safety.
Expanding DFR Reach with Washington Hospital Healthcare System
The Fremont DFR program is further bolstered by a partnership with Washington Hospital Healthcare System (WHHS).
Later this month, WHHS will host UAV launches from its rooftop location on Mowry Avenue, expanding the program’s reach and response capabilities within the community.
Jeff Kleven Battalion Chief, Fremont Fire Department said, “This program has the potential to save lives and make our community safer, and Skyfire’s expertise has been invaluable in getting us to this point.”
