A tool that helped stop flames from overtaking the Notre Dame Cathedral is being used in Kentucky. The Louisville Fire Department has two drones for firefighters to get a bird's eye view.
Since the department got drones around five years ago, the technology has been used to fight fires like the one at Whiskey Row. LFD has also used drones to assist with a water rescue and respond to a train derailment.
LDF Chief Gregory Frederick said using the drones helps the department assess the scene faster while using less manpower. That, in turn, increases safety.
"It's an unmanned aircraft, so if something happens to the device, you're not risking anybody's life," Frederick said.
Changing FAA regulations created a few more hurdles, causing the department to stop using the drones for a while. Now, the department has all the waivers, registration and training needed to continue this innovative firefighting technique.
"We have to grow with the technology," Frederick said.
As drone technology continues to advance, Frederick predicts it will become an increasingly important tool for first responders.