Broward Sheriff’s Office deploys rescue drones for swimmers

The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has implemented new drone technology to assist swimmers in distress along the Florida coast. Certified Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operators in areas such as Pompano Beach and Lauderdale-By-The-Sea are using drones to deploy Restube® flotation devices.

The Restube® is a compact device mounted to the drone that automatically inflates into a four-foot buoy upon hitting the water. This allows swimmers to remain buoyant and catch their breath while waiting for traditional rescue methods, such as boats or lifeguards, to arrive.

This initiative aims to address high drowning rates in Florida, which ranks fifth in the nation for unintentional drownings. The BSO notes that drones can often reach a victim faster than watercraft or swimming rescuers, providing critical assistance during the first few seconds of an emergency without requiring deputies to enter the water immediately.