Fire experts break down DFR’s impact on fire response

Synopsis

Listen in as Fire Lieutenant and retired NYPD Detective Jason LaFond, along with Rich Gatanis, a firefighter and HazMat technician from Southern Manatee County Fire Rescue, break down how Drone as First Responder (DFR) is transforming fire service operations.

They explain how drones provide real-time situational awareness, helping command staff make informed decisions on fire suppression strategy and resource allocation as incidents evolve. Whether it’s a HazMat response or a structure fire, drones are dramatically improving firefighter safety and reducing response times.

From pre-event mapping to post-incident analysis, cause and origin documentation, and active DFR deployments, drones are proving to be a powerful force multiplier across all areas of the fire service.