 |
|
The Western Australia (WA) Police Air Wing received its first five-blade Airbus H145 helicopter last month. As the first law enforcement jurisdiction to operate the new H145 helicopter in the southern hemisphere, WA’s new aircraft gives officers access to the most advanced air support technology available.
The Airbus A145 can be rapidly deployed, allowing it to be airborne within two minutes, compared to the 10 minutes it currently takes using other aircraft. This enhanced capability, as well as the helicopter’s new safety features and reduced maintenance requirements, will boost public protection as police respond to emergencies and crime. A second H145 helicopter is currently under construction in Germany. It’s expected to be in Perth and fully operational by March 2024.
The Air Wing’s existing Kawasaki Bolkow BK117 helicopter will remain in service until the second H145 helicopter is fully operational.
“Working with officers on the ground, a single aircraft is a proven force-multiplier,” said Air Wing Officer in Charge Superintendent Paul Daly. “With its enhanced safety features and significantly reduced maintenance requirements, the H145 is an ideal aircraft for the various law enforcement missions carried out by our police Air Wing.”
Source: www.wa.gov.au/government
|
| Top |
|
The Metro Nashville Police Department arrested a 15-year-old boy after officers reportedly caught him aiming a green laser at their police helicopter. He has been charged with aggravated assault against the two officers who were on board the helicopter.
The teenager is among a number of other people who have been arrested for similar incidents in recent months. In May, authorities arrested at least three people caught directing lasers at police helicopter crews. In one case, a Metro Nashville Police Department helicopter crew reported being hit with a laser while flying toward “dangerous street racing activity.” Officers later found the alleged culprit with a laser attached to a BB gun. Less than three weeks before that, officers said a laser was pointed at a crew flying to help detectives. Police said the laser was strong enough to reach more than a mile and a half into the sky and temporarily blind the pilots.
Earlier this year, the Acting Administrator of the FAA wrote a letter to laser distributors and manufacturers asking them to add or enhance warning labels on their packaging in order to make people aware of the federal laws when it comes to using them.
According to the FAA, there were over 400 laser incidents in Tennessee in 2022, with more than 60 incidents occurring in Nashville. From Jan. 1 through May 31 this year, there have been 26 laser incidents reported.
Source: wkrn.com
|
| Top |
|
Teledyne FLIR Defense recognized the winners of the 28th Annual ‘Vision Awards’ at APSCON 2023. The annual event honors airborne law enforcement crews across America for use of thermal imaging systems in high-speed pursuit, search and rescue, and other lifesaving missions. The awards are divided into four categories, including the FANG Award for operations involving a K-9 support team. This year’s winners are:
Vision Award 1st Place: Prince George's County (MD) Police Department Aviation Section, Pilot Bob Corser and TFO Corporal Christopher Elrod.
Vision Award 2nd Place: Marion County (FL) Sheriff Office Aviation Unit, Chief Pilot Darren Bruner and TFO Corporal Joseph Jenkins.
Vision Award 3rd Place: Broward County (FL) Sheriff Office Aviation Unit, Pilot Deputy Sheriff Elier Vaguez and TFO Deputy Sheriff Oscar Gonzalez.
Life Saver Award: Brevard County (FL) Sheriff Office Aviation Unit, Pilot Deputy Brandon McIntyre and TFO Corporal David Altman.
Hot Pursuit Award: Prince George's County (MD) Police Department Aviation Section, Pilot Sergeant Jason Huntley and TFO Corporal Jessica Johnson.
FANG Award: Orange County (CA) Sheriff Office Air Support Bureau, Pilot Corporal Santiago Diaz, TFO Deputy Sheriff William Chavez, K-9 Handler Officer Ryan Johnson and dog Kaylee.
Video files of the winning submissions, showing how thermal imaging technology was used to aid operations, can be found here.
|
|
|
|
APSA offers three proctor courses based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) sUAS Test Methods: Basic, Advanced and Confined. These test methods can be used to evaluate sUAS capabilities and sensor systems, remote pilot proficiency and credentialing. Those registering for these courses must be experienced sUAS pilots who want to hone their skills, evaluate sensor systems and/or have a desire to train and evaluate other sUAS pilots.
The Basic Course is 24 hours of classroom and hands-on flight instruction and covers the BPERP and open lanes. Attendees will learn how to fabricate apparatus, conduct trials, and embed them into their own training and credentialing programs. Successful completion of this course will provide you with a Basic Proficiency Evaluation for Remote Pilot (BPERP) Certificate and NIST Test Methods Basic Proctor Certificate of Completion, allowing you to serve as a proctor for the BPERP evaluation. Upcoming courses include:
• November 6-8, 2023 in Florence, TX (TX DPS Tactical Training Center)
The Advanced Course covers the Open and Obstructed Test Lanes. The Open Test Lanes evaluate 5 different flight paths (Position, Traverse, Orbit, Inspect, Recon) to identify objects from safe altitudes in open environments. These tests are scalable for all sizes of aircraft to demonstrate positive control at all times with accurate perches. They can be performed outdoors or indoors to control lighting and weather. The Obstructed Test Lanes enable remote pilots to fly safe and repeatable flight paths to inspect objects within close proximity to obstructions. They include a comprehensive set of 5 different tests with increasing difficulty (Perch, Wall, Ground, Alley, Post) that guide remote pilots through a series of 10 positions, orientations, and perches within both the standard test lanes and the operational scenarios embedded with scoring tasks. They can be performed outdoors or indoors to control lighting, weather, and access to the Global Positioning System (GPS). Upcoming courses include:
• September 20-22, 2023 in Fort Wayne, IN.
The Confined Course covers the Confined Test Lanes, which enable remote pilots to fly safe and repeatable flight paths to inspect objects within confined environments and interior room-to-room searches. They include a comprehensive set of 5 different tests with increasing difficulty (Perch, Wall, Ground, Alley, Post) that guide remote pilots through a series of 10 positions, orientations, and perches within both the standard test lanes and the operational scenarios embedded with scoring tasks. They can be performed outdoors or indoors to control lighting, weather, and access to the Global Positioning System (GPS). Upcoming courses include:
• September 18-19, 2023 in Fort Wayne, IN.
If your agency is interested in hosting any of these courses and receiving a free set of NIST sUAS Test Methods apparatus along with complimentary registration, contact APSA Training Program Manager Terry Palmer.
|
|
|
|
An aircrew of the Hillsborough County (FL) Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit helped to apprehend a man accused of armed kidnapping. Last month, the Aviation Unit received a call to help locate a 25-year-old man. A warrant had been issued for his arrest on charges of armed kidnapping. The aircrew located the man walking toward a vehicle at some gas pumps and deputies were able to take him into custody.
"The collaboration between our Aviation Unit and patrol deputies is exemplified first hand in this video," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "It's thanks to their vigilance that we can keep the citizens of Hillsborough County safe and protected."
The man was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery with a firearm of a pregnant woman, kidnapping with possession of a firearm, armed false imprisonment, harassing a witness and a felon in possession of a firearm.
Source: patch.com
|
|
|
 |
|
The Tehama County (CA) Sheriff's Office is set to receive a Bell UH-1H helicopter coming from the Jefferson Parish (LA) Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Dave Kain and Sergeant Dustin Maria explained to the Tehama County Board of Supervisors they will not use any of the general fund to pay for the program. Donations from various departments and existing grants will allow the agency to purchase a hoist as well as cover the expense to ship the helicopter out to us. The department is also receiving a donation of a used forward-looking infrared system to put on the helicopter from a police department in the Netherlands.
Sergeant Maria explained the aircraft will be used for various operations. “We are primarily going to be using it as a search & rescue vehicle and supplementing our Office of Emergency Services Unit, Boating Safety Unit, and every other specialty unit of our department.” The aircraft will also help reduce the number of personnel for certain incidents and will be over 50% cheaper than what they are currently paying for contracted services.
“We had at least five volunteers that are coming on to work with the program,” Maria said, “they’ll be assigned to our Aviation Unit; some of those people do include pilots from well-respected and well-established outside public service emergency agencies.”
Source: krcrtv.com
|
|
APSA conducts regularly scheduled online meetings for safety officers, maintenance technicians, SAR, natural resource, and UAS operators that you can join using your computer, mobile device or phone. To facilitate this, the UAS, Safety Officer and Maintenance Technician Meeting Groups meet once every two months, and the SAR Personnel and Natural Resources Meeting Groups meet quarterly.
These meetings are open to any APSA member. Contract maintenance providers to APSA members are welcome to participate in the maintenance meeting as well. To receive meeting information and be added to the mailing list, send an email to tpalmer@publicsafetyaviation.org.
The schedule for upcoming APSA online meetings is as follows:
Maintenance: Wednesday, August 23, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 PM EDT (1700 UTC)
UAS: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 pm EDT (1700 UTC)
Safety Officers: Friday, September 22, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 PM EDT (1700 UTC)
Natural Resources: Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 pm EDT (1700 UTC)
SAR: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 from 1:00-2:00 PM EDT (1700 UTC)
Visit this link for the schedule of future online meetings.
https://publicsafetyaviation.org/apsa-online-meeting-group-schedule
|
|
|
|
APSA conducts virtual Safety Stand-Tos online as well as in-person Safety Stand-Tos on an on-request basis for members at their facilities. Safety Stand-To are open to both APSA members and non-members. In order to participate, however, you must register online.
VIRTUAL | Canadian | September 28, 2023
IN-PERSON | Baltimore County (MD) Police Department
40th Anniversary | October 11, 2023 – Save the Date
More Info Coming Soon!
VIRTUAL | Natural Resources | October 26, 2023
IN-PERSON | Spokane County, WA
November 14-15, 2023 – Save the Date; More Info Coming Soon!
To schedule an in-person Safety Stand-To in your area, please contact APSA Training Program Manager Terry Palmer at tpalmer@publicsafetyaviation.org or 301-631-2406.
|
|
|
|
|
One of the axioms in public safety is that without the right tools it is difficult to do the job. The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) Aviation Division is shoring up its ability to respond to emergencies with the acquisition of a Daher Kodiak 100 multi-mission aircraft. The agency took delivery of the turboprop at APSCON 2023.
“As North Carolina’s motto is ‘First in Flight,’ it’s extremely appropriate that the state’s forest service is the initial operator of this latest upgrade for the Kodiak 100,” said Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of Daher’s Aircraft Division. The NCFS will utilize its Kodiak 100 as a “load aircraft” to carry equipment and supplies to operational locations in support of aerial tankers in the wildfire suppression role.
The Kodiak 100 was designed to be a multi-mission workhorse, capable of applications that range from wildfire suppression, monitoring of national resources and the protection of public safety to humanitarian services and surveillance and reconnaissance duties. The Daher Kodiak 100 is the first to be delivered with the composite five-blade, lightweight propeller configuration from Hartzell Propeller.
Source: flyingmag.com
|
|
|
The Sergeant Lee Russell Refuge is a new Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency refuge comprised of 570 acres in Carroll County. A dedication event for the new refuge took place on July 14. The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to name the area after the late Sgt. Lee Russell who served in the Aviation Division of the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), where he assisted with search and rescue, warrant execution, air cover, and more. Sgt. Russell tragically died in a helicopter crash while on duty in August 2022.
During his tenure with the THP, Sgt. Russell received advanced flight training, focusing primarily on airborne law enforcement techniques. He held an Airline Transport Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor certificate and two Cessna type ratings. He gave presentations and instruction on the use of aircraft to THP Strike Teams, Trooper Cadet Schools, THP supervisors, Tennessee Park Rangers, Tennessee Bureau of Investigations agents, local law enforcement agencies and citizen organizations.
Sgt. Russell received multiple awards and recognitions during his career, including THP Lifesaver Awards, Governor’s Highway Safety Office Hero of the Year Award, and several letters of commendation for multiple lifesaving events and criminal apprehensions.
Source: wbbjtv.com
|
 |
|
CNC Technologies, an aviation technology and wireless communications company, supported the Modesto (CA) Police Department with the establishment of their Aviation Unit last month. The company sold the agency a fully-equipped GippsAero GA8 airplane that was previously operated by the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office. CNC took the GippsAero GA8 Airvan as a trade-in while delivering a missionized Cessna Grand Caravan to the State of Pennsylvania.
CNC’s guidance included contractual due diligence, assistance with aircraft inspections, and logistical and financial support. This all took place while Modesto’s budget, legal and operational teams worked together to close the transaction. The result was a mission-ready aircraft that was put into service almost immediately upon arrival in Modesto.
“CNC’s ability to quickly adapt to the procurement and operational needs of our law enforcement customers has proven to be very valuable,” said Alex Giuffrida, Managing Partner. “Our ‘customer first’ motto was evident here and resulted in a smooth and problem-free transaction.”
CNC Technologies remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies through cutting-edge aviation technology, seamless solutions and collaborative partnerships. CNC’s successful support of the Modesto Police Department's Aviation Unit underscores their dedication to enhancing public safety and security.
CNC Technologies provides custom aerial surveillance, data transmission and counterterrorism solutions, while the CNC team brings decades of experience deploying local, national and global communications networks for the world’s most demanding operators.
Source: CNC
|
|
Vita Inclinata Technologies has acquired Air Rescue Systems (ARS), a helicopter response, training and equipment company that has served customers in various branches of the military and emergency response organizations worldwide for more than 20 years. Vita said combining the companies will provide lifting solutions to a broader range of emergency response organizations, equipping them with the tools and skills required to execute successful missions.
ARS offers custom, detail-oriented courses for advanced helicopter operations, including hoist, short-haul, rappel, fast rope, medical/rescue, precision long line, and skid operations tailored to mission-specific requirements with equipment that is purpose-designed and built by helicopter operations professionals. This includes the Air Rescue Vest—Quick Connect, which is used by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marines.
Part of Vita Inclinata, Vita Aerospace manufactures the Vita Rescue System—Litter Attachment, which utilizes a computer-controlled fan package to adjust speed, and stabilize hoist loads and eliminate spinning. "We are honored to partner with Air Rescue Systems to expand our reach and impact in the emergency response landscape," said Caleb Carr, co-founder and CEO of Vita Inclinata Technologies. "This partnership enables us to provide comprehensive solutions needed to address the challenges of emergency situations. Together, we will drive innovation and empower teams worldwide to save lives and protect communities."
Source: Vita Inclinata Technologies
|
|
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been working towards fully integrating drones into the National Airspace System (NAS), and Remote ID is crucial for those integration efforts. Beginning September 16, 2023, all drone pilots who are required to register their UAS must operate in accordance with the final rule on Remote ID.
Remote ID is essentially a digital license plate for unmanned aircraft systems. Typically, this allows drones to broadcast their ID number, location, altitude, velocity, flight time, and control station or takeoff location. That data is available to private and public stakeholders like local law enforcement, which can then notify the FAA of unsafe flight or request an aircraft be grounded. Or, it can simply obtain more information about the drone.
Recreational drone pilots may register once and apply their registration number to all the devices listed within their inventory. This is not the case for Part 107 pilots who must register each individual device (Standard Remote ID drone or Remote ID broadcast module) separately within their inventory and each device will get a unique registration number. The deadline for operational compliance is September 16, 2023. Learn more here.
Sources: FAA and flyingmag.com
|
|
|
|
APSA offers a monthly Webinar Series as part of our education and training program. Recognizing the need to provide training to those members who may not be able to travel to in-person APSA events, these webinars continue the series of live, online training originally brought about by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduled for Thursdays, 1:00-2:30 pm Eastern, the upcoming schedule and topics in this series are:
Changing to State-Approved Drones and Remote ID
September 14, 2023 | Instructed by : Aaron Fritch, Texas Department of Public Safety,
Jason Day, Texas Department of Public Safety and Mathew King, Aurora Uncrewed Test Site
Natural Resources Operations and Challenges
October 12, 2023 | Instructed by: Francis Neeley, Florida Forest Service
Corrosion Prevention and Repairs
November 16, 2023 | Instructed by: PHI MRO Services
Thermography for Manned and Unmanned Aircraft
December 14, 2023 | Instructed by: TBA
Registration for these webinars are open. To register, simply click on the webinar(s) you’d like to participate in and complete the registration form. These webinars are offered free of charge to APSA members.
Interested in sponsoring one or more of these webinars and addressing the participants? Contact Benay Osborne by email or call her at 301-631-2406 for details.
|
|
|
|
Two APSA corporate members, Digital Airware LLC and Turbolyft Aerospace Corporation, announced last month that they will work together to provide the aviation industry an all-compassing suite of software, parts, aircraft builds and a law enforcement aircraft lease program.
The collaboration between Digital Airware and Turbolyft Aerospace bring together two innovative teams in the industry, each with a distinct expertise that will be leveraged to develop custom solutions for today and tomorrow’s operators. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of safer, more efficient and unique solutions. The joint effort will address the pressing challenges faced by operators today including supply chain shortcomings to highly technical custom integration completions.
"Over the years, we have continued to provide the industry with leading software and support to enhance all aspects of aviation operations with our 26 integrated modules. We hear the pulse and demand of the industry and continue that support in moving towards providing a one-stop-shop solution. The agreement with Turbolyft’s impeccable workmanship and support will elevate and help provide that need to the industry,” said Digital Airware President Joaquin Demoreta.
Source: Digital Airware/Turbolyft
|
|
Building on over four decades of excellence in aviation, Helicopter Services Inc. (HSI) now offers aircraft completion services on its General Services Administration (GSA) contract, in addition to maintenance, airframe improvements, systems and avionic installs and upgrades. This effort improves access for many agencies to high-quality aircraft completions via a trusted, efficient contract route.
Importantly, HSI is the only company on the GSA marketplace focused solely on the helicopter industry. “Because we service helicopters only, our focus and expertise are not divided,” said Manager Robin Crossland. “Our mechanics and management put emphasis on customer support and their needs, bringing experience and the knowledge backing it for these key rotary wing programs.”
Airborne public safety agencies, private owners and aerial applicators all rely on HSI. “With GSA offerings, buyers are guaranteed most-favored pricing when purchasing, and because GSA contract holders have been through extensive vetting, municipalities can sole-source via the GSA contract, avoiding delays seen in burdensome bidding processes,” adds Crossland. “HSI is there for the sale, the completion and subsequent support: our services do not end once the PO is issued, or the helicopter is delivered.”
Source: HSI, Inc.
|
 |
|
A Utah Department of Public Safety Aero Bureau helicopter aircrew recently hoisted two firefighters in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Crews had responded to the Cedar Knoll Fire when the firefighters suffered heat-related exertion and dehydration battling flames with temperatures in the mid-90s.
Video from the helicopter and also from a crew member on the ground shows one firefighter being airlifted out on a stretcher while the other was lifted out by the crewmember on the hoist.
Utah County Fire Warden Garrett Nielsen said he was also there that day battling the fire. “It’s not an easy job,” Neilsen said. “With the heat and the terrain, it can definitely be hard on us physically.” Nielsen said the conditions can quickly take a toll, especially when firefighters are carrying up to 60 lbs. of gear.
“There’s never a situation that there can’t be an accident in our industry,” Nielsen said. “It’s a very dangerous job and, in reality, it’s going to happen to every one of us.” Nielsen said wildfire season in the county had fortunately been fairly light and he had only responded to a handful of fires so far.
Source: ksl.com
|
|
A Los Angeles County (CA) Sheriff's Department search-and-rescue K-9 was airlifted last month after overheating during efforts to find a missing 53-year-old hiker. Air Rescue 5 inserted Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) tactical medics to bring the dog to safety and provide cooling measures. The K-9 was then taken by Air Rescue 5 from the Angeles National Forest as dangerous heat broiled the region's mountains and valleys.
In addition to K-9 units, the sheriff’s department had also employed drones in their search for the missing man. No additional updates on the dog’s condition have been published since deputies’ initial report of the airlift.
Source: officer.com
|
|
|
|
Long-time APSA member, Mike Calhoun, published a book last month. The book, Training Through Chaos: Pick The Right Tactical Flight Officer Candidate & Improve Training Methods, is about the selection and training methods for tactical flight officers. Calhoun writes from 22-plus years of experience in law enforcement, most of which have been as a TFO, pilot and chief pilot.
Training to be a TFO is by far one of the most difficult positions to learn and be successful in. Calhoun covers selection and training methods that can be utilized to help TFO instructors maximize their student's potential. This book, the first of its topic, lays the groundwork for an interview and practical flying assessment of the candidate. Calhoun takes the fundamentals of instruction he learned over the years as a CFI and distills the essentials for the trainers in their units. Additional topics include the student's brain while learning new tasks under stressful conditions, setting realistic expectations during training, the training flow and process, and how to be an effective shaper of behavior as well as an ongoing mentor/leader.
The book is available for purchase on Amazon now.
|
|
|
|
Thank you to all the APSA members who entered the 2023 Air Beat magazine photo contest. This year’s winner is Michael Thomas of the Michigan State Police Aviation Unit. The winning photo was revealed during APSA’s 2023 General Membership Meeting. Michael was unable to attend in person but his grand prize of a GoPro HERO11 Black camera was picked up on his behalf by his co-worker, APSA Midwest Region Director Cole Martin. Congratulations to Michael!
We intend to conduct this contest again next year, but feel free to send public safety aviation photos anytime of the year by emailing to airbeat@publicsafetyaviation.org.
|
|
|
|
APSA’s Member Referral Program offers incentives to current members who recruit new members to join APSA. The member who brings in the most new members between July 1 of the previous year and June 30 of the current year is recognized each year at APSA’s Annual General Membership Meeting as Ace Recruiter of the Year. This year’s winner is Ray Grimes of the Orange County (CA) Sheriff’s Department Aero Squadron Reserve Unit, who was sent an etched beer stein and APSA logo merchandise from The Hangar. He also receives free membership for a year and his name engraved on a memorial plaque proudly displayed at the APSA office in Maryland.
Thank you all for your membership and helping APSA continue to grow. Membership is the lifeblood of an association; to serve the membership is why we exist. APSA’s networking, education and training opportunities are unique and specialized for public safety aviation. Let your colleagues and friends know about APSA membership and you could be next year’s Ace Recruiter of the Year.
|
|
|
|
A video from the Tampa (FL) Police Department Aviation Unit shared on social media last month shows two instances after midnight in which a green laser emanating from a nearby apartment building pierces into the helicopter, obfuscating the view. Police were able to track the origin of the laser to an apartment, where they arrested a 26-year-old man.
The man was charged with misuse of a laser lighting device. Under Florida law, it is a third-degree felony for any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.
The aircrew was not injured in this incident, but TPD spokesman Officer Stefon Filer stressed the dangers of shining lasers at any aircraft. "It causes a distraction to pilots and it also messes up their video feed," Filer said. "It literally blinds them for a second or two, but we also can't differentiate whether that's a weapon or just a laser."
Source: YouTube
|
|
|
 |
|
The Atherton (CA) Police Department is adding a drone to its police force, which can fly out and gather real-time information during burglaries, disaster responses, traffic accidents, missing persons, active shooter situations, and more. The 21-officer department signed a three-year lease to use the remotely-operated Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) from the Houston-based startup Paladin, which works with police and fire departments.
Atherton began using the drone in March, training staffers not to fly the drones but to monitor the flights and equipment. Atherton found out about the drones from Flock, its automated license plate reader provider, said Police Chief Steve McCulley.
"What's unique about it is, especially for an agency of our size, we don't have the ability to have drone pilots," McCulley said, "It provides critical intelligence.” Atherton's drone uses a cellular LTE connection, which allows it to reach a 3-mile radius limit. The drone has a 55-minute battery life, which the department said is ample time to gather video footage for most incidents and emergency situations.
Source: almanacnews.com
|
|
|
|
The Salem (NH) Police Department announced plans to acquire a fleet of drones last month. Salem Police Captain Jason Smith said the department has worked out plans to support a drone program for two and a half years through a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant. The grant is currently being managed by the New Hampshire Department of Safety.
The uncrewed aircraft are expected to be rolled out in the next three to six months, and will be used for missions including missing persons, search and rescue, traffic accidents, and crime scenes, as well as crowd management at large events. “We envision all of these scenarios [will likely be] drone deployment situations,” said Smith. “A drone can also hover for many hours in one location during large public events to provide a supervisor or command center a real-time view on the size of the crowd or parking and traffic issues.”
The department has reportedly already selected members for its new drone unit and has conducted initial training. Further training will be undertaken following the acquisition of the drones.
Source: airmedandrescue.com
|
|
|
|
Going to the Commercial UAV Expo Americas 2023 tradeshow in Las Vegas next month? If so, stop by the APSA booth (551) and learn about what we’re doing to support public safety drone operations, including the latest in APSA’s education series. You can find APSA Executive Director/CEO Dan Schwarzbach and Training Program Manager Terry Palmer there Sept. 5-7. Come on by and say hello!
|
|
|
|
Did you know that in the United States, there are 12,000+ helicopters, 32,000+ helicopter pilots and over 292,000 aircraft mechanics? That's according to data from the United States Helicopter Safety Team. Each year, the U.S. helicopter industry safely flies approximately three million flight hours, and every second of every flight must be handled with professionalism. Read the USHST's monthly safety report here.
Source: USHST
|
|
|
|
Most articles you read in APSA’s Air Beat magazine come from members like you. With the help of our editorial staff, it’s easy to spotlight the great work of your aviation unit with an article in Air Beat. (It’s our editor’s job to make you look good, so don’t worry if you’re not a writer.) Editorial topics include safety, equipment/training, maintenance, tactics and more. Our editorial team is always looking for public safety agencies that want to highlight their aviation unit or members who want to share their knowledge, so please reach out.
Whether your missions involve law enforcement, emergency medical transport, natural resource conservation, firefighting, or search and rescue, or if you operate helicopters, fixed-wing or unmanned platforms, we would love to hear from you and be able to spotlight your agency in Air Beat this year. Email us at airbeat@publicsafetyaviation.org for information.
|
|
|
 |
|
APSA’s networking, education and training opportunities are unique and specialized for public safety aviation. Let your colleagues and friends know about APSA. Thank you for your membership and helping APSA continue to grow. We would like to welcome the following corporate and individual members who joined during July 2023:
Individual Members:
Dan Aceves, Texas Department of Public Safety | El Paso Duty Station
Junior Aimable, St. Lucia
Valkie Alexander, St. Lucia
James Barr, Brunswick County (NC) Sheriff's Office
Robert Benoit, University of Illinois P.D.
Tom Blomgren, Chronos Aviation
Micheaux Boyce, Orange County Sheriff's Office
Chris Bridges, Leon County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Aviation Unit
Gregory Caserta, Nassau County Police
Giles Cassius, St. Lucia
Haonan Cheng, Pasadena (CA) Police Department | Air Operations Section
Mark Daniels, NC Marine Patrol
John Davis, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Wilcox Denin, Calcasieu Parish (LA) Sheriff's Office
Dennis Despres, Crescent Systems, Inc.
Timothy Epps, Orange County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Aviation Unit
Jordan Falkenstein, Modesto Police Department
Dwane Ferdinand, St. Lucia
Hunter Gueringer, Calcasieu Parish (LA) Sheriff's Office
Doug Handyside, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Greg Hardee, DOJ
John Hawkins, King County Sheriff's Office
Lauren Hernandez, Orange County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Aviation Unit
Welbie Houghton, Orange County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Aviation Unit
Sergio Jimenez, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
Alex Jones, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Henry Kimondo, Aircraft Parts N Supplies (Aero Technology Group)
Char Langehaug North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department
Kacy Lionel, St. Lucia
Phillips Michael, Florida Department of Law Enforcement Aviation Unit
Jacob Moore, Modesto Police Department
Michael Mouat, Hemet Police Department
David Navarrete, Los Angeles County (CA) Sheriff's Department
Anthony Passafume, Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Flight Unit
Gyaneh Prestwich, Pasadena (CA) Police Department | Air Operations Section
Alex Ramsey, Harris County Sheriff's Office
Jay Reinelt, Edmonton (AB) Police Service | Flight Operations Unit
Maris Riley, St. Lucia
Calixte Rismay, St. Lucia
Christopher Sasser, Brunswick County Sheriff's Office
Matthew Simmons, Florida Highway Patrol | Bradenton
Michael Smalley, Jr., Pinellas County (FL) Sheriff's Office | Flight Unit
Jose Tobias Souza, MNFL Sky Solutions Direct, Inc.
James Spagnola, Florida Forest Service
Devin Standard, RP Optical USA
Ryan Tinay, Crescent Systems, Inc.
Carlos Torres, Jr., Miami-Dade (FL) Police Department | Aviation Unit
Gabe Webster, King County Medic One
Brad Weller, Florida Forest Service
Jeremy Zdzinicki, Will County (IL) Sheriff's Office
If you know of other public safety aviators or industry-related companies that could benefit by becoming APSA members, please share this link and help our association grow!
|
|
Get Your Organization's News Online
Send your press releases, company logos and photos to:
Lisa Wright
Editorial Director
airbeat@PublicSafetyAviation.org
Join Our Mailing List
APSA's Monthly E-Newsletters are designed to help keep you informed on the very latest information in the airborne law enforcement industry. Our E-Newsletters are distributed by email, as an additional benefit to our membership. To join our mailing list, you must be a member. If you are not a member of APSA, sign up today!
Advertise in APSA's E-Newsletter
For rates and availability, contact:
Emily Tarr
Sales Representative
(205) 563-9313 office
etarr@PublicSafetyAviation.org
http://www.publicsafetyaviation.org
Top
|
This newsletter is published monthly by the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA), a public benefit, non-profit California corporation. APSA is comprised of air crew and air support personnel in public safety and others who support, promote, and advance the safe and effective use of aircraft by governmental agencies in support of public safety operations.
© Copyright 2023 by the Airborne Public Safety Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this newsletter in whole or in part without written permission from the Editor is prohibited. Product and corporate names mentioned in this newsletter are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA), its Board of Directors, staff or membership; nor shall their publication imply endorsement on the part of APSA of any content or claims made therein. APSA disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and makes no judgment regarding the accuracy of posted information. In no event will APSA be liable to any party for any direct, indirect, special or consequential damages resulting from the publication or any subsequent public distribution thereof.
Airborne Public Safety Association, Inc.
50 Carroll Creek Way
Suite 260
Frederick, MD 21701
Phone (301) 631-2406
Fax (301) 631-2466
Top
|
|
