The city’s efforts to enhance beach safety through drone technology are undergoing a significant transition, with the Parks Department set to take over the beach drone surveillance program previously managed by various city agencies. This move comes as part of an initiative spearheaded by Mayor Eric Adams to improve monitoring of beach conditions and ensure prompt assistance in emergencies.
New Oversight by Parks Department
The beach drone program, which has been instrumental in keeping an electronic eye on sharks and swimmers along parts of Rockaway Beach, was initially overseen by the NYPD, fire department, and emergency management agencies. These agencies collaborated to deploy drones to monitor rough seas and facilitate rescues when needed. However, the responsibility for managing this program will now shift to the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation by summer 2026.
While the Parks Department will be taking the lead in overseeing the beach drone program, the specifics of drone operation are still being finalized. It has been clarified that lifeguards will not be responsible for flying the drones, highlighting the need for trained personnel to handle this advanced technology effectively. To ensure seamless integration, an NYPD “Chief of Enforcement” will be stationed within the Parks Department to oversee the expansion of the agency’s drone unit.
Innovative Drone Initiatives
The NYPD introduced a groundbreaking initiative last winter to utilize drones for aiding drowning individuals. Deputy Commissioner for Operations Kaz Daughtry explained in a video that officers could deploy drones equipped with flotation devices to individuals in distress. These devices would automatically inflate upon contact with the water, providing crucial support to those at risk of drowning.
Mayor Adams has emphasized the importance of leveraging technological advancements like drones to enhance water safety and rescue operations. He highlighted the potential of drones equipped with inflatable life rafts to assist individuals caught in riptides or facing drowning threats, emphasizing the role of effective communication in calming down those in distress.
While the inflatable rafts were not deployed during the recent summer season, the initiative underscores the city’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions for beach safety. The collaboration between various city agencies in leveraging drone technology reflects a proactive approach to addressing water-related emergencies and improving overall beach surveillance.
Lifeguard Recruitment and Training
In addition to the transition of the beach drone program, efforts have been made to address the longstanding issue of lifeguard shortages, particularly exacerbated during the pandemic. The Parks Department reported a nearly 10% increase in the number of lifeguards compared to the previous year, with a total of 930 individuals serving in this critical role during the summer season.
Recruitment initiatives included the return of 592 seasonal lifeguards, 68 year-round lifeguards, and 270 new recruits – marking a significant rise in new lifeguard additions. To incentivize retention, nearly 600 lifeguards received a bonus for their dedication throughout the summer season, underscoring the importance of recognizing and rewarding lifeguards for their commitment to beach safety.
Furthermore, the Parks Department ratified a new contract with the lifeguard union, introducing significant changes after 40 years. One notable adjustment includes the relaxation of vision requirements for lifeguards at shallower pools, aligning with the evolving needs of the role and ensuring equitable opportunities for all aspiring lifeguards.
The Parks Department’s commitment to enhancing lifeguard training is reflected in plans to conduct training classes in each borough, aiming to create a more accessible pathway for new recruits to join the lifeguard program. By expanding training locations and resources, the department seeks to diversify its lifeguard pool and provide opportunities for aspiring lifeguards from various communities to contribute to beach safety efforts.