Nine Communities Chosen for Ohio’s New Drone First Responder Program

Two northeast Ohio communities are among nine agencies across the state chosen to take part in Ohio’s new Statewide Drone First Responder pilot program.

The Amherst Police Department and Kelleys Island Fire/EMS were selected for the initiative, which aims to expand rapid aerial response capabilities and improve emergency response times. The program is led by the Ohio Department of Transportation and DriveOhio, with support from public safety drone specialists.

Officials say the drones can be launched quickly from fixed docking stations and provide real-time video to command staff, helping first responders assess scenes before crews arrive. Some systems may also be able to deliver critical medical supplies during emergencies.

Gov. Mike DeWine said the program is designed to give first responders modern tools that improve safety and situational awareness while supporting communities of all sizes across the state.

Participating agencies will begin training and onboarding in early 2026, with operations expected to start this spring and continue for about a year. The pilot will evaluate how the technology impacts response effectiveness and could guide future expansion statewide.

State leaders say several agencies, including those in Amherst and on Kelleys Island, may also share drone resources with nearby departments, extending the benefits to surrounding communities.