Key Takeaways:

• DJI introduces a new Disaster Relief Program to enhance emergency response capabilities in the U.S.
• The initiative aims to provide first responders with advanced drone technology and essential training.
• Over 900 public safety organizations are already using DJI drones for life-saving missions.
• The program partners with various agencies and organizations dedicated to disaster response.
• Drones have proven effective in search and rescue operations, infrastructure inspection, and damage assessment.

DJI Leverages Drone Technology to Enhance Disaster Response Support

Innovative Disaster Relief Program to Provide Emergency Responders with Cutting-edge DJI Drone Technology and Comprehensive Training

In a significant move to bolster national disaster response efforts, DJI, a global leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, launched a new Disaster Relief Program dedicated to assisting first responders across the United States. This initiative provides access to state-of-the-art drone tools and extensive training resources, empowering emergency teams in their response to severe disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and other local emergencies.

Drones are increasingly recognized as essential assets capable of greatly improving the efficiency and effectiveness of search and rescue missions. They have successfully aided teams in locating victims more rapidly and minimizing risks to both those in danger and the responders themselves. Notable usage during recent natural disasters, including hurricanes Florence, Irma, and Harvey, as well as California’s devastating wildfires, illustrates the advantages of deploying aerial solutions in times of crisis.

“This program represents DJI’s commitment to public safety, as evidenced by the fact that over 900 public safety organizations in the U.S., including the Los Angeles Fire Department, are actively utilizing DJI drones for life-saving purposes,” stated Romeo Durscher, DJI’s Director of Public Safety Integration. “The implementation of this program is designed to safeguard more lives, allowing emergency responders to mitigate risks associated with disaster scenarios more effectively.”

Public safety agencies across the country are discovering that the benefits of aerial data extend well beyond the initial response phase. The high-quality aerial maps generated by drones facilitate more effective debris removal and reconstruction planning. Furthermore, utility crews gain invaluable insights into repairs needed to restore power quickly, while tenants can expedite their insurance claims through well-documented evidence of damage.

Through the Disaster Relief Program, DJI plans to collaborate with a select group of U.S.-based partners to equip local and state public safety agencies with advanced hardware and software solutions. Initial participants include key organizations engaged in emergency response:

• Los Angeles Fire Department — A DJI Solution Development Partner that employs drone technology for fire prevention and emergency response.
• Menlo Park Fire Protection District — An early partner known for its expertise in training personnel to utilize various drone platforms in emergencies.
• Alameda County Sheriff’s Office — A leading law enforcement body experienced in large-scale disaster responses.
• Public Safety Unmanned Response Team North Texas — A group of skilled drone pilots from fire, police, and emergency management backgrounds operating in diverse scenarios.
• FLYMOTION — A premier DJI Enterprise partner specializing in drone solutions for public safety applications.
• Axon — The global leader in connected public safety technologies, providing drone solutions and secure data management for law enforcement.

The program will distribute cutting-edge DJI technologies, including the Matrice 200 series and Mavic 2 Enterprise drones, along with various accessories, batteries, visual and thermal cameras, DJI’s FlightHub for fleet management, and AeroScope for airspace oversight and unauthorized drone detection. Furthermore, DJI will extend technical support, repair assistance, and on-site personnel to streamline the deployment of drone technology in urgent situations.

The announcement of the DJI Disaster Relief Program occurred during AirWorks 2019, the company’s annual commercial drone conference aimed at fostering connections among DJI customers and its network of solution providers. The event highlights the myriad of benefits presented by drone applications and anticipates the future trajectory of the global commercial drone market. For more details on AirWorks, please visit www.airworks2019.com.