The progress of drones over the past decade has been remarkable. In addition to allowing the average person on the street to take to the skies, they’ve also helped in the public sector as well.

Including the realm of law enforcement.

Which is why I’m excited to hear that Green Bay is considering using drones for it’s fire and police departments (story HERE). Local leaders and the general public should embrace and anticipate how much this can help out first responders.

Let’s begin with the obvious. You’ve probably seen drone footage from around the country used to find people. We’re talking about fleeing criminals running through the backyards of residential neighborhoods, to lost children in the middle of corn fields. Drones have a well defined track record in this area and it’s a positive one.

And while less obvious, the next point is the more important one. It could save lives. One thing I’ve learned from workshops and citizen academies with first responders is that moving into an unknown situation is dangerous and potentially life threatening. If our police officers and fire fighters can’t see the danger they’re running into, then it makes their work even more risky than it already is. Drones can reduce that risk substantially.

My last take is one that many of you might not be familiar with. But our police and fire department leaders don’t buy “gadgets” or “toys” for the sake of simply having them. Their philosophy is to buy tools that will keep the public and their own teammates safe. I trust them in that regard.

It’s that ethos, as well as the excellent track record of drones in public service, that makes this a very promising opportunity for our local heroes.