The East Madison Fire Territory (EMFT) is proud to operate a dedicated UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Drone Division, using advanced drone technology to enhance our emergency response capabilities, protect our community, and save lives.
In emergency situations, every second counts. Our drone division provides real-time aerial intelligence that improves safety and decision-making during fire incidents. UAVs are equipped with high-resolution and thermal imaging cameras, giving our incident commanders a bird’s-eye view of active fires, hot spots, and dangerous conditions not visible from the ground.
Key advantages of drones in firefighting include:
- Rapid scene assessment and size-up
- Real-time thermal imaging to locate hidden fire or structural weaknesses
- Monitoring fire spread in wildland or large commercial fires
- Increased safety by reducing the need to place firefighters in hazardous areas
When a loved one goes missing, time is critical. Our UAVs assist in search and rescue operations by covering large areas quickly, especially in challenging terrain or low-visibility conditions. Drones can access wooded areas, rivers, fields, and other locations that are difficult or dangerous for personnel on foot.
Our drones help locate missing persons by:
- Using infrared/thermal cameras to detect body heat in dense woods or darkness
- Scanning wide areas with zoom-capable optical cameras
- Providing aerial support to guide ground teams efficiently
- Reducing overall search time and increasing the chance of a positive outcome
The UAV Drone Division is an essential tool for modern emergency response. It enables the East Madison Fire Territory to:
- Respond faster with critical information
- Operate more safely in high-risk situations
- Use resources more efficiently
- Keep firefighters and citizens better protected
Our drone pilots are FAA Part 107 Certified and receive specialized training in emergency operations and aerial search techniques. We are committed to using this technology ethically and responsibly, always with the goal of protecting life and property.