Northamptonshire Fire Service expands drone capability and rural safety outreach

Firefighters from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service have completed specialist drone training, becoming the first operational crew members with nationally recognised qualifications. The training, delivered by Norfolk Constabulary, enables the crew to pilot drones that provide live aerial views of incidents such as fires, flooding, and search operations, improving situational awareness and crew safety. The newly trained team has already deployed the drone at incidents, including a gas‑cylinder fire where the aircraft helped locate and monitor the cylinders from a safe distance.

The service is also urging rural community groups across the county to request fire, water and road‑safety support. Since July, the Prevention team has delivered 23 safety sessions, including a mature‑drivers event in Brackley and talks to village groups in Oundle and Yarwell, combined with free home fire‑safety visits. Residents are encouraged to contact the service for tailored safety advice and visits.