Nassau County tests water rescue drones that help save lives, fight crime
ISLAND PARK, Long Island (WABC) -- The Nassau County Police Department demonstrated new water rescue drones near Island Park, highlighting technology officials say could help save lives by reaching people in distress before marine units arrive.
The drones, equipped with rescue equipment packed into a compact device, deploy a beacon that activates when it hits the water.
"This is while the Marine Bureau is responding, so they're also on their way," Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder said.
Ryder said the drones could provide critical assistance during the time it takes for first responders to reach an emergency.
"It's going to take them 5 to 10 minutes to get here. Five to 10 minutes can be the difference of saving someone's life," Ryder said.
Officials said the drones are expected to assist with many of the calls currently handled by lifeguards on South Shore beaches. Strong rip tides this season are already among the situations the drones may be used to monitor, along with shark sightings.
The department said the drones are also expected to serve a range of law enforcement functions beyond water rescues. Potential uses include responding to reports of boaters or swimmers in distress, monitoring crime scenes and assisting with incidents such as road rage cases, street takeovers and threats at places of worship.
"I can send the drone into that area, not letting you know police are watching. They start the illegal activity. Now, we, you know, surround them, and we make those arrests and issue summonses," Ryder said.
The county is paying for the drones with money seized from drug dealers. Officials said the department currently has eight drones and hopes to deploy 24 by spring.
In the City of Long Beach, officials said the technology could help police monitor crowded areas more effectively.
"We have a lot of people packed into a small area. So having these... this eye in the sky, is going to really help us out," said Richard DePalma of the Long Beach Police Department.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said the drones can often arrive at a scene before officers.
"Twenty-three seconds we can have a drone. They're taking film that feeds directly into the police officer's vehicle, so they can see in a real basis what's going on there," Blakeman said.
The drones are equipped with sensors designed to prevent accidents and include thermal imaging capabilities. Officials said the technology will provide an additional tool for law enforcement while also helping first responders during emergencies.
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