Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  The City of Foley is advancing a new public safety initiative that places drone technology on the front lines of emergency response. The Foley City Council approved a program authorizing the Foley Police Department to deploy drones as first responders. The department has partnered with Skydio, the largest U.S.-based drone manufacturer, to integrate aerial technology into its emergency response system. The program is designed to provide "eyes on scene" within seconds of an emergency call.

When certain emergency calls come in, a Skydio drone automatically launches from a fixed station within the city. The drone flies to the exact GPS coordinates of the reported incident. It arrives in a fraction of the time it takes ground units to respond. Live video is then streamed in real time to dispatchers and responding officers.

City officials say the program is centered on several key public safety benefits:

• Enhanced Officer Safety: Live video feeds give officers critical situational awareness before they arrive, helping them de-escalate volatile situations and prepare the right response.
• Faster Response Times: Drones reach the scene well before ground units, enabling rapid assessment of critical situations.
• Optimized Resource Allocation: Real-time video helps police and fire supervisors determine the exact type and level of response needed for each incident.
• Search Support: Airborne capabilities provide crucial assistance during active searches for missing persons.

Officials were clear that the program will not be used for general surveillance of residents or public spaces. The Foley Police Department stated the drones are "strictly designed as an emergency response tool, solely utilized to bring real-time situational awareness and visual insight to active emergency scenes within minutes."

Department leaders say they are eager to bring the program online and remain committed to keeping the public informed as it develops. The Foley Police Department said it "will continue to bring the best people and technology to keep you and your family safe in our city." Additional updates are expected as the program progresses.