The City’s Summer Safety Plan: Drones to the Rescue
In an unexpected turn of events, Mayor Eric Adams announced on Friday that drones equipped with flotation devices will be used to assist swimmers in distress at city beaches this summer. The drones, which will be operated by the NYPD, FDNY, and Office of Emergency Management (OEM), are set to revolutionize water safety along the city’s 14 miles of shoreline. The deployment of over 40 drones with the capability to drop flotation devices is part of a broader seasonal safety plan that covers various aspects of public safety “by air, land, and sea”.
During a press conference at Orchard Beach in the Bronx on May 23, Mayor Adams hailed the technology as a “game changer” in water safety. The drones will hover over swimmers in trouble, communicate with them in real time, and release flotation devices until lifeguards or emergency crews arrive on the scene. Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry emphasized that the drones will be equipped with a “rest tube” that opens into a flotation device as soon as it hits the water, providing support for swimmers of all body weights. The agencies involved will continue their daily coordination on beach safety operations, including shark activity monitoring, surveillance, and water rescues.
Not really sure why this matters, but city agencies already utilize drones year-round for various purposes, such as deterring subway surfing, monitoring protests, and assisting in incidents involving armed individuals. The drone deployment is just one component of the larger Summer Safety Plan, which coincides with the official opening of city beaches on Saturday. The plan includes enhanced lifeguard staffing, fire safety campaigns, enforcement against impaired driving, and expanded youth programming. Mayor Adams urged swimmers to only enter the water when lifeguards are on duty, heed red flags and posted signs, and be cautious of rip currents. Additionally, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch highlighted a citywide “summer violence strategy” targeting 70 zones across 57 precincts, with over 1,500 officers on foot patrol resulting in a 23% drop in major crimes in those areas since the plan’s launch on May 5.
In conclusion, the introduction of drones equipped with flotation devices at city beaches this summer marks a significant advancement in water safety measures. Mayor Adams and city agencies are taking proactive steps to ensure the well-being of beachgoers through innovative technology and comprehensive safety planning. As the city gears up for the summer season, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and make the most of the enhanced public safety initiatives in place. The drones may just be the heroes we never knew we needed in the waters of New York City.
