An important step in establishing an UAS / drone program is determining which UAS best fits the needs of you or your agency. The capabilities and usage of the different types of UAS platforms vary widely in their mission, applications, and cost. But the basic functions and purpose of UAS in public safety remain essentially the same, namely, to gather information and data from an aerial vantage that can be used by operators and or rescuers on the ground.
To select and purchase the best UASs for your agency, it is important to keep in mind the following key considerations:
Operational Needs Assessment. What will the UASs be used for?
Operational specifications. What technology or equipment is needed to achieve mission goals?
Defining Requirements
It is a lot more than just asking the question, “What is the best UAS for SAR, wildland fires, accident recreation, water rescue support?” NFPA 2400 provides a clear set of guidance on ways to effectively implement a UAS program, including requirements, providing details on developing program criteria, assessing operational needs, and considering purchase needs.
Operational Needs Assessment
The deployment of UAS operations must be assessed based on the following:
· Mission objectives
· Risk assessment
· Availability and capability of resources
Operational Specifications
Any purchase specifications must consider the following:
· Operational requirements
· Minimum system configuration and specifications
· Quantitative data demonstrating UAS capabilities
· Sustainable life cycle
Minimum system configuration and operational specifications to consider:
· Payloads, EO/IR, lights, drop, etc.
· Flight range,
· Endurance, flight time
· Speed, cruising and max
· Operating altitude max
· Max launch altitude
· Wind sustained and gusts
· Operating temperature, minimum and maximum
· Rain, snow, fog capabilities
· Size and weight of aircraft
· GCS and firmware
· Battery charging time
· Launch method
· Recovery method
Recommendations
Often, “less is more.” The more complex the UAS system is, the more complicated and expensive it can be to operate and maintain it. Consider starting with simple and easy-to-learn systems and evolve the program as you gain more experience.
Consider durability and battery life as you evaluate which UASs to purchase. Look for vendors with proven experience that will be in the UAS industry for the foreseeable future. This will allow you to obtain necessary parts and repairs in the future.
Consider mission management solutions for supporting operational requirements, including report generation, image storage and management, image analysis, etc.
Implement your UAS program on a trial basis for a specified period of time (e.g., 180 days).
Use an inexpensive and small platform UAS when first starting out. Many UASs have been accidentally damaged or destroyed during training.
Conduct a formal evaluation of the trial period. An evaluation period will allow your agency to decide if pursuing a UAS program is worth the time, effort, and money that must go into it.
If you would like more information on how EMMU Aerial can assist your organization, please visit our main webpage at EMMU Aerial, or feel free to contact us at via emails at EMMU Aerial.