A major component to safety is reducing exposure. Sending a machine into potential harm’s way instead of a human accomplishes that.
Patrolman Young Lee said multiple real-life experiences where law enforcement or Belt personnel had to respond to potentially hazardous situations led him to begin the Belt’s drone program.
“Having a drone makes so much sense,” he said.
The company acquired a DJI Matrice 300 drone. Lee characterized it as a top-of-the-line commercial model with numerous features, including the ability to stabilize itself and hover in place; a 3-mile flying range; and a 200-times zoom capability for its camera. Both Lee and Director of Operating Practices Jason Charbonneau are licensed to fly it.
Lee enjoys piloting the drone.
“It lets you see from a whole new perspective,” he said.
Lee also expressed his gratitude to President Michael Grace for supporting the program.
“He understood the concept and was very open to it,” Lee said.
A drone allows BRC personnel to obtain a good view of something without having to send people into potentially hazardous situation.
Patrolman Young Lee is licensed to operate the drone.