MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) has officially rolled out a new fleet of advanced drones aimed at improving emergency response times, enhancing situational awareness, and increasing public safety.

The newly deployed drones are fully “Blue List” compliant, approved by the U.S. Department of Defense, and equipped with a range of high-tech features. Each unit includes high-resolution zoom and wide-angle cameras, thermal imaging capabilities, gas detection sensors, and GIS-based live mapping tools.

“These drones are game-changers for us,” said Captain Matt Young, who leads the department’s drone program. “They give us a bird’s-eye view of what’s happening on the ground, which is incredibly valuable in situations where visibility is poor or the scene is too dangerous to access right away.”

Key capabilities of the drone units include:
Thermal imaging to detect heat signatures through smoke or in low-light conditions
Real-time video transmission that can be shared with field responders via secure links or QR codes
Aerial mapping with GIS overlays to pinpoint specific locations and assess damage zones

The drones will be used for a variety of emergency situations, including search and rescue, hazardous material incidents, and natural disaster response. Captain Young noted the versatility of the technology: “Whether we’re looking for a missing child, an elderly individual with dementia, or assessing tornado damage, these drones provide real-time insights that help us make faster, more informed decisions.”

MFRD currently has 20 certified drone pilots and has stationed drones at key fire stations throughout the city. This allows the department to deploy a drone anywhere in Murfreesboro within 12 minutes.

In addition to boosting operational efficiency, the program reflects MFRD’s broader commitment to innovation and public safety. “We’ve invested in training, equipment, and FAA certification because we know this technology saves lives and protects property,” Young said.

The integration of drones into Murfreesboro’s emergency services represents a major step forward in local public safety efforts, ensuring faster, safer, and smarter responses during critical situations.