As First Alert 6 reports, the Omaha Police Department is taking a big step forward today with the official launch of Nebraska’s first Drones as First Responders program and city leaders are ready to show how drones will help officers reach emergencies faster and safer.
The department says the goal is simple. Respond faster. Keep officers safer. Get eyes on a scene long before anyone arrives. That early information can change how officers plan and how they protect the public during critical calls.
Omaha Takes Drones to the Front Line
Chief Todd Schmaderer said innovation is essential for modern policing. He believes the new drone program gives officers a smarter, safer way to work. According to OPD, these drones can reach 911 calls in just minutes and provide real time visuals to both officers and the Real Time Operations Center. That means officers can approach a scene with clearer information and a better idea of what they are walking into.
The program is fully funded by private donors through the Omaha Police Foundation. City leaders, representatives from Axon and Skydio, and the mayor are all supporting the launch. For Omaha, this is a big moment and the department is treating it like one…