Ontario PD launches Drone as First Responder program

Synopsis

The Ontario Police Department has officially launched its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program—an innovative step toward faster, safer, and smarter public safety response. With a goal of achieving an average citywide response time of under two minutes, Ontario PD is deploying drones to active calls for service to improve situational awareness before officers arrive on scene.

The DFR program represents the department’s commitment to using technology in service of both community safety and officer well-being. By providing live aerial visuals from above an incident, responding officers gain critical insights into what’s happening on the ground—whether it’s assessing a potential threat, locating a suspect, or ensuring bystander safety.

Although still in its early stages, the Ontario PD DFR program is already demonstrating how use of technology can strengthen response times and improve decision-making in the field. As the program continues to evolve, the department looks forward to sharing the positive impacts it brings to Ontario’s residents and first responders alike.