Prototype drone gets close to fires to relay info first responders

Dubbed FireDrone, the prototype aircraft could be sent into infernos to assess hazards and provide first-hand data from danger zones. The data would then be sent to first responders to help inform their response. 

The drone is made of a new thermal aerogel insulation material and houses an inbuilt cooling system to help it withstand temperatures of up to 200°C for ten minutes.

In a statement, principal investigator Professor Mirko Kovac, director of the Aerial Robotics Lab at Imperial College London and head of the Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics at Empa, said: “Until they enter the danger zone, firefighters can’t be certain of what or who they’ll find, and what challenges they’ll encounter. 

“FireDrone could be sent in ahead to gather crucial information – noting trapped people, building layouts, unexpected hazards – so that responders can prepare accordingly to keep themselves safe and potentially save more lives." 

Drones are already used in firefighting to take aerial footage, hoist fire hoses up skyscrapers, or drop fire retardant. Despite these advantages, they are unable to fly much closer in case their frames melt and their electronics fail.