42° and Mist
Image
Photos courtesy NEMCo
Recently, we received an update on NEMCo's disaster preparedness drone program from Dan Singley, NEMCo Volunteer and Drone Team Lead.
NEMCo is a partnership between Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, the Northshore Fire Department, and the Northshore Utility District to enhance community emergency preparedness. Its mission is to engage the entire community in preventing, mitigating, responding to, and recovering from emergencies through education and volunteer coordination. NEMCo offers year-round emergency preparedness training for volunteers and individuals seeking to improve personal readiness.
The NEMCo Drone Team held its first "Drone Experience Project" during their January meeting, featuring an indoor obstacle course designed to enhance flight control skills in confined spaces. The course simulated real-world challenges, requiring pilots to navigate hoops, poles, and boxes.
Twenty-four team members received a briefing on drone operations and a demonstration by Ron Henson, the team’s Pilot Lead. Using a DJI Neo drone with a 4K camera, participants practiced flying, many for the first time indoors, and honed skills crucial for post-disaster missions like indoor search operations. These capabilities enhance situational awareness, improve safety, and support first responders in planning effective disaster responses.
The NEMCo Drone Team welcomes all community members who have an interest in utilizing drones to help our community. Training is offered in drone operations that include ground support, flight operations, advanced piloting skills and data processing. For more information visit the NEMCo drone page.
