The safety of the citizens of Rodgau is a top priority for the volunteer fire brigade and the city administration. In order to be able to help even more effectively during operations, the volunteer fire brigade has put a new drone unit into operation. This modern technology is designed to make the work of the emergency services safer and more efficient, especially when every second counts. The centrepiece of the new unit is the DJI Matrice 30T drone. With its advanced equipment, which includes wide-angle, thermal imaging and zoom cameras, it provides valuable information from the air. For example, it enables firefighters to detect hidden pockets of embers before they spread. The drone is also a decisive advantage when searching for people, because thanks to the thermal imaging camera, missing persons can be found much more quickly - even in the dark or in confusing terrain. This shortens the often nerve-wracking search and can save lives. The drone also ensures greater safety during hazardous goods operations or in rough terrain. It can scout the situation from a safe distance and transmit live images to the incident command centre. This enables better coordination of the emergency services and faster decisions on how best to help those affected. The drone also helps to precisely determine the size of a danger zone and monitor exclusion zones. It also helps to visualise liquid spills, gas developments or leaks. 360° images and photo documentation can be created for the follow-up of operations. The cost of the drone is around €23,000. In addition, annual maintenance costs of €1,216 are incurred for the DJI Care package. Further costs may be incurred for new rotor blades or batteries if required. The drone has a take-off weight of approx. 3.8 to 4 kg and reaches a maximum speed of 23 m/s (82.8 km/h). The maximum flight time is 41 minutes per battery set, with a total of three battery pairs available. In addition to the wide-angle, thermal imaging and zoom cameras, the drone is equipped with visual and infrared sensors for obstacle detection. Eight members of the North site are currently trained to use the drone. There are plans to increase the number of personnel. The drone is also stored and operated at the Rodgau North site.
