WHERE: 630 2nd Street West, Sonoma CA 95476
WHEN: Jan, 30, 2024
Application Date: 01/26/2023
I am writing to request support for the Sonoma Valley Fire District’s unmanned aircraft fire prevention safety unit. Our program, which was established in 2021, is entirely supported by grants and donations and plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of our community. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are increasingly being employed by fire departments to improve their firefighting capabilities and enhance safety. Aerial surveillance is one of the primary ways in which drones are used by fire departments. Equipped with cameras and thermal imaging technology, drones can quickly and efficiently survey large areas for fires, hotspots, and other hazards, enabling fire departments to locate and respond to fires even in remote or difficult-to-reach areas. Additionally, while at the scene of a fire, drones allow for the maintenance of situational awareness and safe operation in hazardous environments. Fire departments utilize drones in a wide range of incidents, including structure fires, wildland fires, hazardous materials releases, vehicle accidents, search and rescue operations, and law enforcement events. Furthermore, drones are also utilized for pre-incident surveys, reconnaissance, post-incident damage assessment, and fire investigations. Our team at the Sonoma Valley Fire District consists of five licensed pilots with an FAA-issued Certificate of Authorization. We are able to deploy within the entire Sonoma County area as an operational resource. While it may seem as though we have everything we need for our Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) program, we are currently facing a limitation with our current UAV platform, the Matrice 200, which is limited by a single gimbal, allowing for the use of only one flight camera at a time. Through our operations, we have recognized the significant operational benefits of having quality imagery with the ability to switch between infrared and visible light cameras. Therefore, we are in need of UAV platforms that can support multiple cameras to enhance our aerial surveillance and provide for the safety of our staff and more effective emergency responses to the communities we serve. We are committed to providing the highest level of fire safety and protection for our community, and your support would greatly assist us in achieving this goal. We would be grateful for any financial or in-kind contributions that you can provide.
In a remarkable act of generosity, Ms. Debra Punak, a private citizen from Los Angeles, has donated a DJI Mavic 2 Pro to the Sonoma Valley Fire District through the National Public Safety Drone Donation Program. NPS-DDP.org their mission is to help provide “Eyes In The Sky For Every Department In Need ™”
Ms. Punak’s contribution, valued with a DJI Mavic 2 Pro, Smart Controller, 5 batteries, and lens filters, is a testament to the spirit of community and a commitment to public safety. The drone, in excellent condition with 31 hours of flight time, will significantly enhance the Sonoma Valley Fire District’s unmanned aircraft fire prevention safety unit.
The NPS-DDP, dedicated to supporting public safety agencies with cutting-edge drone technology, facilitated this generous donation. The program aims to bridge the gap between drone enthusiasts and organizations in need, ensuring that vital resources reach those on the front lines of emergency response. The question is why Suport public safety with drone technology? This video discusses just some of the reasons why.
The Sonoma Valley Fire District, an agency committed to the safety of its community, made a formal request for drone support to enhance its firefighting capabilities. Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), play a crucial role in aerial surveillance, enabling fire departments to quickly and efficiently survey large areas for fires, hot-spots, and other hazards. Equipped with cameras and thermal imaging technology, drones provide critical data for situational awareness and safe operation in hazardous environments.
Expressing gratitude for Ms. Punak’s donation, the Sonoma Valley Fire District highlighted the need for UAV platforms that support with enhancing aerial surveillance capabilities. The district, consisting of five licensed pilots with FAA-issued Certificates of Authorization, is dedicated to providing the highest level of fire safety and protection for its community.
Ms. Punak’s contribution is a shining example of how private citizens can make a tangible impact on public safety. The NPS-DDP.org encourages others to follow this inspiring lead, fostering collaboration between drone enthusiasts and public safety agencies for the greater good. Each donation can help make a real difference !
