The Monsey Fire Department has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, receiving a rare FAA waiver that allows it to operate a fully autonomous Drone as First Responder (DFR) program — making it one of the few fire department agencies in the country with this capability.
This high-level clearance means Monsey Fire’s drones can launch automatically the moment a call is dispatched, providing real-time aerial footage of the scene even before the first units arrive. Equipped with advanced thermal imaging, the drones allow responders to pinpoint hotspots, detect hidden fires, and assess structural threats with unprecedented speed and accuracy.
The drones — which currently launch from two rooftop “docking stations” at fire department facilities — transmit live video feeds directly to command staff, viewable on phones, iPads, and laptops. The initiative, made possible through close collaboration with the FAA and with a letter of support from Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh, marks a significant step forward in public safety technology.
“This system gives incident commanders a bird’s-eye view of the scene — like having a helicopter in the air at every call,” said a source familiar with the program. “It helps guide firefighters before they even step off the truck.”
Monsey Fire’s aviation program is also being integrated into other operations. During water rescues, drones can drop flotation devices to a drowning victim within 40–60 seconds — providing critical seconds of survival while rescue divers are en route. Drones also conduct seasonal brush fire patrols, scanning for heat signatures in high-risk zones and helping prevent wildfires before they spread.
To support the expanding program, Monsey Fire Communications is currently upfitting a dedicated drone operations command vehicle. This specialized vehicle will allow for enhanced on-scene drone control and video relay, further strengthening Monsey Fire’s rapidly growing communications and command infrastructure.
The department currently operates two drone docks but plans to expand to six across its coverage area. It is also training and certifying 15–20 FAA-licensed drone pilots to support future operations. The drones are strictly used for emergency response and public safety — not for surveillance or law enforcement purposes.
Instrumental in helping establish the drone program was Mark Kahn of Drone911 (mark@drone-911.com), a key figure in bringing drone technology to law enforcement, EMS, fire departments, and search and rescue agencies across Rockland County and throughout the United States.
The program reflects a growing collaboration between Monsey Fire and other agencies including Ramapo Police, the Rockland DA’s Office, and the Sheriff’s Department — with the shared goal of faster, smarter, and safer emergency responses.
The FAA waiver granted to Monsey Fire is one of the most exclusive in the nation — typically issued only to high-level law enforcement units — making this a proud and historic achievement for Rockland County’s emergency services.
Fantastic! Monsey FD always at the forefront of firefighting technology and response!
Absolutely groundbreaking and cutting edge!
This will without a doubt save lives.
Monsey Fire is setting standards for fire fighting across the country. From fly cars that respond directly to the scene to the high tech dispatch systems, this is truly epic!