Drones in use: New recommendations for fire departments revealed!
The German Fire Brigade Association recommends the use of drones in emergency services to optimize operational planning and aerial reconnaissance.

Drones in use: New recommendations for fire departments revealed!
The German Fire Brigade Association (DFV) recently published an important technical recommendation that is intended to help managers and operational planners in the fire department to make the use of drones efficient. The twelve-page document, which cites Feuerwehrmagazin, offers valuable information on the procurement, training and operation of unmanned aerial vehicles. The recommendation aims to illustrate the diverse uses of drones, which go far beyond mere aerial photography.
Drones can, for example, provide situational images from the air or detect embers using the latest thermal imaging technology. They also prove to be useful in hazardous substance situations because they can record important measurement data. Future possible uses include the transmission of radio relays or the transport of life-saving materials such as defibrillators and medication. They are also suitable for documenting operations and exercises.
Legal framework and organizational recommendations
A central chapter of the paper deals with the legal framework for the use of drones by authorities and organizations with security tasks (BOS). In certain scenarios, operational drones are allowed to fly without authorization, provided that applicable European and national regulations are adhered to. The recommendations also state that a clear distinction between manned and unmanned air support is necessary. The organization and tactics should be designed in such a way that duplicate structures are avoided.
Particular attention is paid to the training of drone pilots, who should have an EU A2 remote pilot certificate or an equivalent qualification. The technical requirements must not be neglected either: sufficient replacement batteries and stable radio and internet connections are essential, as is a self-sufficient energy supply. A separate vehicle concept for the drone unit is also recommended.
Technical developments and future perspectives
The DFV emphasizes that drones provide data as a supporting technology, but cannot replace the command and control process. The alerting and evaluation processes must be practiced to ensure a quick and efficient response in the event of an emergency. The developments show that drones are becoming increasingly important not only as a technical aid, but also as an essential component of modern operational strategies.