Ohio Selects Nine Agencies for Nation’s First Statewide Drone First Responder Pilot Program

COLUMBUS, OHIO — Nine public safety agencies across the state have been selected to launch a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at putting eyes in the sky before officers or paramedics reach a scene. The Ohio Statewide Drone First Responder pilot program, coordinated by the Ohio Department of Transportation and DriveOhio, will use autonomous technology to reduce response times and provide critical situational awareness for first responders. The program relies on "drone-in-a-box" technology, where aircraft are stationed in permanent docking sites and launched remotely upon receiving an emergency call. According to the DriveOhio UAS Center, these drones can provide real-time video streaming to command centers and even drop medical supplies in urgent situations. This approach is not just about testing new equipment; it is about establishing a scalable model for public safety that works for cities and rural townships alike. Gov. Mike DeWine said the state is committed to giving first responders the tools they need to protect lives safely and effectively. This pilot, which was established through House Bill 96, includes a diverse group of participants: the Springfield Police, Fire and EMS departments; Athens Police; Lima Police; and the Toledo Police Department. Suburban and rural representation comes from Violet Township Fire and EMS, the Austintown Fire Department, and the city of Hamilton. The Amherst Police Department and Kelleys Island Fire and EMS round out the list, highlighting the program's reach into both densely populated areas and remote island communities in Lake Erie. Kelleys Island, the largest of the American Lake Erie islands, presents a unique use case for this technology because of its isolated geography. Using drones could allow for immediate aerial assessment of emergencies during times when ferry service is limited or weather makes traditional travel difficult. SkyfireAI, an industry leader in public safety drone programs, is managing the project and ensuring that all systems comply with federal security standards. According to SkyfireAI, the drones are NDAA-compliant, meaning they meet strict requirements for domestic security and data privacy. Meanwhile, CAL Analytics, a Dayton-based firm, is handling the traffic management framework to ensure these drones do not interfere with other aircraft. State Rep. Adam Holmes, a primary supporter of the legislation, noted that the DFR program will provide a significant capability for what he described as Ohio’s priceless first responders. This sentiment was echoed by Rep. Bernard Willis, who chairs the House Transportation Committee, noting that the initiative reinforces Ohio’s history as a leader in aviation innovation. Participating agencies will begin a formal onboarding process in early 2026. This phase includes vendor demonstrations and specialized training for operators who will oversee the remote flights. While some agencies plan to use the drones exclusively for their own jurisdictions, others have already agreed to share these aerial resources with neighboring towns to maximize the program's impact. Operational flights are scheduled to begin in the spring of 2026 and will continue for approximately one year. During this time, the state will collect data on how the drones affect emergency outcomes and whether the technology justifies a permanent, statewide expansion. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.