GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY — Grand Traverse Metro Emergency Services Authority received a $10,598 donation from the Cosgrove Foundation to buy a drone with advanced infrared technology.
According to a May 13 news release, the new drone will enhance GTMESA’s capabilities in search and rescue operations and fire scene investigations by allowing first responders to detect heat signatures and identify hotspots in buildings during active fires.
“We can utilize this technology as another person, an eye in the sky,” GTMESA Assistant Chief of Operations Tony Posey said. “If we were to respond to a large wildfire or a building fire with a very large footprint, we can get that bird’s eye view that we’ve never had before.”
The drone will be deployed in various emergency scenarios, including locating missing persons and assessing dangerous environments from the air.
The Cosgrove Foundation’s investment highlights a strong partnership between local businesses and emergency services, aiming to enhance community resilience.“
This drone is a game-changer for our emergency response capabilities,” Posey said. “It will allow our teams to safely gather critical information in real-time, helping us save lives and protect property.”
GTMESA provides fire and emergency services to the Charter Townships of East Bay, Garfield, and Acme in Grand Traverse County.
The authority has been dedicated to the safety and well-being of residents since 1980 through comprehensive fire protection and emergency services.
With the new drone, GTMESA is aiming to improve its emergency response efforts, enhancing safety for both firefighters and the public.