For emergency response teams integrating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into their programs, their personnel will need to understand the dynamics of the tech, legal implications, and ethical considerations involved. And that calls for training. What is it all about? Let’s start with some basics:

Types of Drones Used in Emergency Services

They can broadly be categorized into three:

1. Multi-rotor Drones

These are drones that use multiple rotors—typically fixed-pitch blades—to create lift. They usually have three, four, six, or eight rotors, and are known as tricopters, quadcopters, hexacopters, and octocopters, respectively. Quadcopters are the most common design. 

By adjusting the speed of these rotors, the UAS can rise, hover, or lower based on whether the thrust exceeds, matches, or is less than the combined effects of gravity and drag. And the drone can also turn or move sideways by altering the rotational speed of specific motors. They are even more stable in windy conditions. 

Here you have the likes of DJI’s flagship Matrice 350 RTK, the Dual 640T RTK that’s part of Autel’s EVO II series or the American-made Teledyne FLIR SIRAS™. These drones are equipped with advanced camera systems and sensors that enable precision in locating individuals in distress across different scenarios—from searches in forests to flood-stricken regions​.

Some niche specific drones under here include:

  • Compact Tactical Drones: Here you have units like the Parrot ANAFI USA, Skydio X10 and Autel Robotic’s EVO Max 4T  that can be quickly deployed, are easy transportability, and have lower visibility, which is crucial in sensitive or covert operations. They are extensively used by law enforcement, and emergency response teams to gain real-time data and visuals without exposing personnel to direct danger..
  • Specialized Firefighting Drones: The thermal imaging with many of the drones already mentioned help detect hotspots and assess the structural integrity of burning buildings, enabling firefighters to strategize their operations effectively and safely from a distance. In addition to this, there are fire department drones that are actually aid in efforts to combat the flames, like with the Freefly AltaX which the U.S. Forest Service uses to deploy plastic sphere dispensing (PSD) ignitions.
  • Heavy-lift Drones: Drones like the Acecore Neo Octocopter are designed for heavy-lift operations, capable of carrying significant payloads, which can include medical supplies or communication equipment vital for emergency operations.

2. Fixed-wing Drones

Fixed-wing drones are like airplanes in that they have rigid wings, a fuselage, and a tail, and they use a propeller driven by a motor to fly. These drones are energy-efficient since they don’t need to expend power to stay airborne, allowing them to travel long distances at high speeds, as you can get with models like the Blue sUAS Approved eBee TAC. 

However, their design means they must keep moving forward—they can’t hover in place or land precisely where you might want them to. Typically, they require a runway to land, or sometimes a net is used to catch them safely to prevent damage  Their ability to fly at higher speeds and for longer distances without the need to hover makes them ideal for rapid search operations over expansive terrains. They are particularly useful in disaster surveillance and mapping large, inaccessible regions​.

3. VTOL Hybrid Drones

VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) drones blend the features of multi-rotors and fixed-wing aircraft. These hybrid drones like the JOUAV CW-30E and Autel Dragonfish can take off, hover, and land vertically, eliminating the need for runways and simplifying the piloting process. Additionally, they have wings that enable them to cover larger areas.

Drone as a First Responder (DFR) Program

Public safety agencies are taking the next step by deploying drones immediately to emergency calls, arriving at the scene before ground units. Cities like Fremont and Chula Vista pioneered this, which has now been adopted by dozens of police departments across the U.S.

How a DFR Program Works: When the 911 call comes in, a trained operator instantly dispatches a drone to the location. This drone, equipped with video cameras, sends back real-time footage to the command center and responding units. There are even drone systems where the deployment autonomously done, such as with the DJI Dock 2 and Matrice 30 series drones. 

Types of Drones Used: DFR programs commonly use compact, agile drones capable of quick deployment and equipped with high-definition cameras for detailed visual feedback. These drones must be durable enough to handle various environmental conditions and capable of secure communication to relay critical information without interception​.

Drone Flying Skills for First Responders

The different kinds of drones bring unique sets of capabilities, tailored to specific requirements of emergency response teams, from high-speed searches to detailed situational analysis and operational support in hazardous conditions. So, what does drone training for public safety teams involve?

    • Basic Flight Controls and Maneuvers: These are the core operations of flying a drone – takeoff, landing, hovering, and smooth transitions between movements. You need a strong foundation here before moving on to more advanced operations​.
    • Certification Prep Courses: They cover FAA Part 107, with extensive test preparation support, including access to practice exams and additional study materials for you to pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test​ and get your Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Night and Indoor Flight Operations: Operating drones during nighttime or inside structures presents unique challenges, such as limited visibility and complex air currents. Specialized drone flight training and UAS thermography courses are required to handle these conditions, so that pilots can navigate safely and effectively without compromising the mission’s objectives​
  • Scenario-based Simulations: This involves simulations of real-life emergencies such as fires, search and rescue operations, or natural disasters. Such training helps pilots learn how to quickly assess situations and make decisions under pressure. For example, during a training session, participants might pilot drones through simulated collapsed buildings to locate survivors or operate at night to understand the challenges posed by limited visibility. It’s a hands-on approach that builds skills and boosts confidence in handling complex operations typical with emergencies.
  • Collaborative Operations: Emergency response drone operations involve coordination with ground teams and other aerial units. Pilots need to be skilled in communication with command centers and other first responders to ensure that all teams are synchronized and that the drone’s capabilities are maximized in the emergency response effort​.
  • Tactical and Technical Proficiency: Advanced courses often cover tactical applications such as using drones for crowd management, tactical surveillance, or accident scene reconstruction. Pilots learn to handle drones equipped with various payloads, including thermal imaging cameras and other sensors, and integrated drone software​.

FAA Regulations and Certifications for First Responder Drone Operations

Drone use – including for public safety and emergency response operations, is regulated by the FAA. Personnel need to be licensed and certified for their operations. Key regulatory aspects include:

  • Part 107 Certification: Public safety personnel flying drones need it unless operating under a government exception. It requires the drone pilot to pass a knowledge test and adheres to specific operational limits, such as flying during daylight and maintaining the drone within visual line of sight. Critical rules under Part 107 include keeping the drone below 400 feet in altitude and not flying directly over people​.
  • Certificates of Waiver or Authorization (COA): For emergency response teams agencies that need more operational flexibility than Part 107 allows, such as night operations or flying beyond visual line of sight, a COA is necessary. It allows them to under a set of agreed-upon conditions​.

Waiver Process: In circumstances where an operation needs to deviate from the standard regulations of Part 107 or a specific COA, the FAA offers a waiver process. Obtaining a waiver requires submitting a detailed safety proposal to the FAA, outlining how the operation will safely deviate from the norm​

In emergency scenarios, the FAA can expedite approvals for drone operations, especially when immediate action is necessary for public safety or to save lives. Regular updates and training on FAA regulations are recommended to stay compliant and informed on the latest in drone operation standards and safety measures.

Ethical Considerations for Drone Use By Emergency Teams 

Drones equipped with cameras and other sensors can significantly enhance public safety capabilities but also raise substantial privacy concerns. Agencies are advised to develop clear policies that define the scope and limitations of drone usage, including data handling and retention protocols​.

Open communication with the community helps alleviate public concerns about surveillance and privacy. Definitely adherence to FAA regulations is mandatory, with specific rules around airspace, altitude, and areas where drone operations are permitted. Policies should be put in place by the departments involved in order to prevent misuse, and include procedures for handling exceptions and misconduct​

Setting Up a Drone Program for First Responders

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

  1. Define Your Program Goals and Objectives: Begin by identifying what you aim to achieve with your drone program. Consider the specific needs of your community and how drones can enhance your response capabilities, be it search and rescue operations, natural disaster assessments, or tactical police actions.
  2. Community Engagement and Transparency: Inform and educate the public about how drones will be used, addressing privacy concerns and highlighting the benefits. Hosting community meetings and involving local organizations can help garner support and mitigate opposition​
  3. Obtain Necessary Certifications: This includes the FAA Part 107 certification covered and the Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) if needed. Courses are available to prepare your personnel to pass the tests here: ABJ Drone Academy Part 107 Preparatory.
  4. Select Appropriate Technology and Equipment: Choose drones and supporting technology that fit your specific mission requirements. This includes not only the drones themselves but also additional equipment like thermal cameras or specialized sensors depending on your operational needs. They will also be determined by factors such as theUAV’s payload capacity.
  5. Comprehensive Training and Exercises: Develop a training program that includes both the technical aspects of flying drones and the tactical decision-making required during operations. Arrangements for on-site drone training for your public safety department can be made.
  6. Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Create detailed SOPs that outline every aspect of drone operation, from pre-flight checks to data handling and maintenance protocols. These procedures should ensure compliance with regulations and facilitate seamless integration into existing response frameworks​.

Once the program is established, continue to monitor its effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Collect data on the program’s impact, seek feedback from operators and community members, and refine your approaches accordingly. 

FAQs About Drone Training For Emergency Response Teams

What is first responder drone training? 

First responder drone training equips emergency service personnel like police, fire, and EMS teams with the skills to operate drones effectively in public safety operations. This training covers basic flight controls, legal compliance, advanced operational tactics, and scenario-based exercises for emergencies​

What certifications are necessary for operating drones as a first responder? 

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate: To pilot drones during emergency response operations, you must pass the FAA’s Part 107 knowledge test, which covers topics such as airspace regulations, weather effects on drones, drone loading, and emergency procedures. This certification requires renewal every two years​.
  • Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA): For more specialized operations that go beyond the typical constraints of Part 107, such as night flights or flying directly over people, public safety agencies can apply for a COA. This certification is particularly useful for government entities because it allows for greater operational flexibility and is tailored to specific mission requirements​
  • Part 107 Waivers: If your public safety operations require flying in conditions not normally permitted under Part 107 or a COA (like beyond visual line of sight, over large crowds, or at night without lights), you may apply for specific waivers from the FAA. These waivers allow you to operate under conditions that ensure public safety while still adhering to FAA safety regulations​

Can drones be used for training inside buildings or other structures? 

Yes, advanced drone training includes indoor operation, which is critical for scenarios like searching buildings during fire operations or tactical police missions. This training covers navigating through complex environments without GPS signals​.

What are some advanced skills taught in first responder drone flight training? 

Advanced skills include autonomous flight, thermal and night vision imaging, multi-drone coordination, and emergency response tactics specific to various public safety scenarios​. Speak to our team to get a program tailored to your department.

What ongoing support is available post-training? 

ABJ Academy provides ongoing support through continued education programs, online forums, and direct access to trainers for updates in regulations and technology. This ensures that public safety drone pilots remain proficient and compliant with current standards​.