DJI Matrice 30T Empowers Washington Township Police Emergency Operations
The Washington Township Police Department in Ohio has recently acquired a DJI Matrice 30T drone to enhance its emergency response and search-and-rescue operations, funded primarily by a $17,000 grant from the Washington Township Police Officers Association, as stated by Chief Michael Thompson.
This advanced drone is equipped with a thermal imaging camera designed for heat detection in difficult environments, and a remarkable 200x zoom lens, enabling officers to observe scenarios from a safe distance. Its smart features, such as automated search patterns and object tracking, optimize emergency management.
Officer Brian Jones oversees the department’s drone operations, supported by Officers Chuck Wirick, Logan Miller, and Logan Brown, who are actively pursuing their drone pilot certifications. This strategic staffing ensures the drone is readily available for emergency calls.
“Having a drone with these capabilities is important for officer and public safety,” remarked Chief Thompson. “If a person goes missing, this tool enables us to search vast areas in a matter of minutes.”
The department is also looking into software solutions that could aid in traffic accident investigations, particularly in serious incidents. Though the drone represents a sizeable investment, department leaders believe its value is justified if it assists in locating just one endangered individual.
Ultimately, the new drone system significantly bolsters the department’s emergency response capabilities, providing officers with cutting-edge tools for various search-and-rescue missions and overall public safety, as noted by Peak of Ohio.
