03 May Dubai Civil Defence will deploy drones to tackle high-rise fires
Dubai Civil Defence has a new method for tackling high-rise fires; drones.
State news agency Wam reported that the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) allows the use of drones for backup and support. As a result, Civil Defence in Dubai are able to deploy drones for tackling hard to reach places including high-rise buildings, confined spaces and warehouses containing hazardous items.
Lt Gen Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, head of Civil Defence in Dubai, said: “This will positively reflect on the tasks undertaken by the Civil Defence to protect lives and property, as it contributes to saving time, effort and speed in handling accidents of all kinds.”
The GCAA issued 180 operational approvals for drone systems during the first quarter of 2022. It has also approved 20,000 applications from amateur drone users.
In January, the UAE issued a ban on the use of drones and light aircraft in a bid to thwart potential attacks or crimes. However, now companies with essential commercial projects can apply to the Ministry of Interior to ask for an exemption.
Currently, anyone found using drones without permission could face a prison sentence of up to five years, as well as a Dh100,000 ($27,225) fine.