April 2026 Review: Public Safety Drones in Remote Operations on Lanai
Upcoming Webcast on Public Safety Drone Use
The next Public Safety Drone Review, hosted by DRONELIFE and DRONERESPONDERS, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7 at 3 PM EST. This session will focus on the application of drones by public safety agencies in remote environments, specifically highlighting operations on the island of Lanai, Hawaii.
Webcast Series Overview
This monthly webcast series aims to connect public safety professionals and program leaders to share practical experiences. Each session emphasizes how agencies are developing, managing, and expanding their drone programs in various operational contexts.
Featured Guest: George Purdy
This month’s featured guest is George Purdy, UAS ‘Aina Management Director for the City of Lanai, Hawaii. Purdy is responsible for overseeing drone operations in an area characterized by isolation, limited infrastructure, and challenging terrain. His insights will illustrate how drone programs can effectively adapt to environments where traditional resources are scarce.
Session Hosts
The discussion will be led by:
- Miriam McNabb, Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE
- Charles Werner, Director of DRONERESPONDERS
- Mike O’Shea, Director of UAS Training at DRONERESPONDERS
The hosts will combine operational insights with a broader perspective on the role of drones in enhancing public safety.
Drones in Public Safety Operations
Public safety drone programs are increasingly being adopted across the United States, with many agencies integrating drones into their daily operations and exploring models where drones serve as first responders.
In remote or resource-limited communities, the role of drones can be particularly significant. This session will explore how one program is tackling these challenges and what lessons can be learned for other agencies.