Tempe Fire Department implements new drone to assist in real time during emergencies

PHOENIX — The Tempe Fire Department has a new tool at its disposal with a drone that can provide aerial views of emergency scenes in real time.

The Fotokite, a drone camera that stays tethered to Battalion Chief vehicles, takes just seconds to get up and running when at the scene. The overhead view, along with thermal capabilities, gives better and quicker information to help crews act safely and effectively.

The drone staying attached to a vehicle makes it so that it can be operated with minimal time and skill.

“It gives us the ability to see the whole incident as it’s happening and keep a closer eye on our crews,” Scott Popatia, Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Deputy Fire Chief, said in a release. “In the past, we relied heavily on radio updates from crews on the ground.

“Now, we can see the scene from another angle in real time, which helps us make faster, safer decisions.”

The Tempe Fire Department will use it to fight structure fires, hazardous materials incidents and in rescues, among other situations. It does not currently record video — only providing live-viewing footage — and any change in that policy “would include clear guidelines and safeguards.”

The system in total cost $54,500, covered entirely by grants from the 100 Club of Arizona and the Last Call Foundation.

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