Drones as First Responder (DFR) Technology

Flock Aerodome™ Drone as First Responder (DFR) is a technology approach that integrates automated drone systems with public safety platforms to enhance emergency response capabilities for law enforcement. This research provides an overview of the Flock Aerodome™ DFR system, its key features, and its potential impact on public safety operations.

Background and Development

Flock Safety, acquired Aerodome in October 2024 to expand its capabilities into drone-based solutions for law enforcement[1][9]. Aerodome helped to develop advanced Drone as First Responder (DFR) technology. The acquisition brought together Flock Safety's existing suite of public safety tools with Aerodome's drone expertise to create an integrated DFR system.

Key Features of Flock Aerodome™ DFR

Automated Deployment

DFR systems use automated, battery-swapping docks positioned across a coverage area, allowing drones to be rapidly deployed to emergency situations[5][7]. This automation enables 24/7 readiness with minimal human intervention.

Integration with Existing Systems

DFR systems can include license plate recognition (LPR) cameras, video surveillance, and gunshot detection sensors[1][4]. This integration allows for automated drone deployment in response to alerts from these systems.

Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Operations

Advanced software and hardware enable the drones to operate safely beyond the visual line of sight of operators, expanding the coverage area and reducing the need for on-site personnel[3][7].

Real-Time Video Streaming

The system provides live high-definition video streaming and telemetry data to emergency responders and command centers, enhancing situational awareness[4][16].

Rapid Response Capabilities

Flock Aerodome™ reports an average response time of 86 seconds, significantly faster than traditional response methods[4][5]. This rapid response can be crucial in emergency situations.

Impact on Public Safety Operations

Improved Response Times

The system's ability to quickly deploy drones to incident locations provides law enforcement with immediate eyes on the scene, potentially reducing overall response times by up to 71%[7].

Enhanced Situational Awareness

Real-time aerial footage allows first responders to assess situations more accurately before arriving on scene, improving officer safety and tactical decision-making[1][9].

Resource Optimization

Approximately 20% of calls can be resolved without deploying patrol units, leading to more efficient use of law enforcement resources[4][16].

Increased Subject Location

The aerial perspective provided by drones has led to an 89% increase in locating subjects of interest[4][7].

Implementation and Adoption

Scottsdale, Arizona was among the first cities to implement the Flock Aerodome™ DFR system, integrating it with their Real-Time Crime Center[3][6]. As of January 2025, other cities like Hempstead, New York have also announced plans to deploy the system[5].

Considerations and Challenges

While the Flock Aerodome™ DFR system offers benefits, agencies must consider factors such as community engagement, privacy concerns, and regulatory compliance. The system includes features for transparency and accountability to address these issues[13][17].

Conclusion

DFR systems represent an advancement in public safety technology. By combining automated drone deployment with existing surveillance and alert systems, it has the potential to revolutionize emergency response capabilities for law enforcement agencies. As the technology continues to evolve and more agencies adopt DFR systems, its impact on public safety operations is likely to grow.

Citations: 

[1] https://www.aerodome.com/blog/flock-safety-expands-into-drones-for-law-enforcement-with-acquisition-of-aerodome/
[2] https://dronelife.com/2024/07/24/aerodome-and-flock-safety-partner-to-expand-drone-as-first-responder-technology/
[3] https://www.aerodome.com/blog/flock-safety-partnership/
[4] https://www.flocksafety.com/devices/drone-as-first-responder-dfr
[5] https://metroairportnews.com/hempstead-police-department-announces-new-drone-as-first-responder-dfr-system/
[6] https://www.police1.com/tech-pulse/aerodome-flock-safety-partner-to-expand-drone-as-first-responder-technology-for-public-safety
[7] https://www.flocksafety.com/devices/flock-aerodome
[8] https://www.aerodome.com
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOdb4_Swe7c
[10] https://dronelife.com/2024/10/16/flock-safety-expands-capabilities-with-acquisition-of-aerodome/
[11] https://www.2048.vc/blog/flock-aerodome
[12] https://www.flocksafety.com/articles/flock-safety-expands-into-drones-for-law-enforcement-with-acquisition-of-aerodome
[13] https://www.aerodome.com/blog/the-evolution-of-dfr/
[14] https://www.unmannedsystemstechnology.com/2024/10/flock-safety-acquires-aerodome-drone-as-first-responder-technology/
[15] https://www.flocksafety.com/articles/aerodome-and-flock-safety-forge-strategic-partnership-to-expand-drone-as-first-responder-technology-for-public-safety-agencies
[16] https://www.flocksafety.com/drone-as-first-responder-flock-safety-aerodome

[17] https://www.aerodome.com/blog/5-as-of-dfr/