UAS Operations Enhance Safety and Situational Awareness for One of the Nation’s Largest Public Events
During the busiest week of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team supported the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) by providing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) services to help keep attendees and officers safe.
The NOPD requested support from Verizon due to the team’s advanced drone technology and their long-standing commitment to public safety. The Crisis Response Team flew more than 140 drone missions during the festival. These flights totaled over 45 hours in the air.
Drones Enhance Public Safety
The UAS missions gave officers a better view of large crowds and helped them make faster decisions. These drone operations supported threat detection and improved communication.
“We’re honored to be asked to support New Orleans first responders during a large-scale event like Mardi Gras,” said Chris Sanders, a senior manager who leads the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team’s UAS program. “This is the first time UAS is being used on a large scale during Mardi Gras, and to be asked for by name speaks to how much our public safety partners trust us and how Verizon Frontline remains on the cutting edge when it comes to leveraging technology to support our nation’s first responders.”
Officer Reese Harper, NOPD director of communications, added, “Mardi Gras is one of the largest events the NOPD manages each year, and ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority. Utilizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems during this year’s festivities provided our officers with enhanced situational awareness, helping us monitor crowds, respond more effectively to potential concerns, and keep the celebration safe for everyone. We are always exploring ways to strengthen public safety through innovation and strategic resources.”
A Historic Celebration with Modern Tools
Mardi Gras is one of the oldest traditions in New Orleans. Dating back to the 16th century, it now draws millions of people and generates over $1 billion for the local economy each year.
The NOPD’s mission is to protect life and property while keeping order. Their approach relies on Community Oriented Policing, which involves working closely with neighborhoods and organizations to solve problems.
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team supports public safety agencies during emergencies. Their work includes setting up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and other tools that improve communication. These services are offered at no cost to supported agencies.
Verizon Frontline is a specialized network developed over 30 years to meet the evolving needs of first responders. The team works 24/7 to ensure public safety teams have the tools and support they need in crisis situations.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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