The RNLI has partnered with the UK’s Royal Life Saving Society to test the use of drones in emergency responses.
As Marine Industry News reports, RNLI lifeguards in Cornwall have been using a waterproof drone from Swell Pro to help observe bathers in the water as well as broadcast safety messages.
The specialised drones also have the potential to deploy lifesaving devices such as inflatable buoys to assist casualties.
Crantock Beach in Newquay, where the drone service developed with Eagle Eye Innovations is being tested, is divided by the River Gannel which makes the area difficult to patrol by conventional means.
“The drone will allow the lifeguards to undertake rapid observations across a wide area,” says lifeguard operations manager Peter Dawes.
Marine Industry News has more on the story HERE.