Hollywood Fire Department launches drone-assisted rescue system

The Hollywood Fire Department is introducing cutting-edge technology to help save lives in the water. On Tuesday, Hollywood Fire Rescue & Beach Safety demonstrated their newly launched drone-assisted rescue system, designed to support anyone struggling offshore.

“Somebody could hold onto that and buy them some time until a rescue could get to them,” said Hollywood Fire Rescue Battalion Chief David Guernsey. Hollywood is the first fire department in Broward County to deploy drones equipped with flotation devices capable of flying to people in distress.

The system features water-activated devices that automatically inflate when they hit the water. The drones can operate up to two miles offshore and deploy flotation devices within a mile of range, potentially improving emergency response times.

“This is able to help support our lifeguards when they’re off duty, to protect our beaches, to be able to help rescue someone,” Guernsey explained. “This doesn’t save them, but it will buy them time for a rescuer to get them to safety.”

The drones aim to give people a fighting chance in the water while awaiting help, particularly when lifeguards are not on duty. “If it’s after hours, and someone from the fire or police department is going out to rescue them, it might be out of their capabilities, so this will help,” Guernsey said.

Officials hope the system will enhance community safety in a city surrounded by water. “We want to make sure we can protect our citizens when they need it,” Guernsey added.

They also emphasized that launching the system during hurricane season is especially important, as storms can sometimes affect South Florida waters, creating additional risks for swimmers.

However, the department noted that the drones will not be used in every scenario, as factors like weather may affect their deployment.