UC seminar showcases emergency response UAV

The University of Cincinnati’s recently offered a free seminar on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) and their potential applications for emergency response. The event was coordinated by the UC Fire Science & Emergency Management Program and Department of Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics.

“We have enjoyed wonderful support from professor Kelly Cohen, interim director of aerospace engineering, and his research associates. Coordinating our respective expertise will meet a real need in the public safety field,” said Larry Bennett, the program chair for UC fire science and emergency management and event coordinator.

The seminar was hosted by UC’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the Miami University Voice of America Learning Center in West Chester Township on July 18.

“We are delighted that OLLI has invited us to put on another seminar on UAVs, and we are particularly pleased that numerous fire, EMS and law enforcement officials will also be attending. This is a great, convenient partnership that responds to increasing community need for services made possible by drones,” said Bennett.

Four local UAV pilots demonstrated several UAVs following the lecture portion of the seminar. The drone pilots represented several organizations from public safety, military, and research fields.

• Tim Bayer, a videographer for Cincinnati Fire Department
• Bryan Brown, a research associate for UC aerospace engineering
• James “Doug” Daniels, Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy
• Ben Hissam, Ohio Bureau of Worker’s Compensation

The event attracted over 150 attendees from fire, emergency response and law enforcement fields, as well as participants from OLLI. “We are delighted with response,” said Bennett.

Flight demonstrations included features like live video feed from the drones (thermal imaging available), cargo drop, and examples of search and rescue applications, like dropping a radio to a remote location.

Professionals interested in UAVs can enroll in Bennett’s upcoming course, “UAVs [Drones] for Emergency Responders.” The week-long course, offered in October 2018, will be in hybrid format: students will complete a two-day residency in the classroom, and three days of distance learning.

For more information about this seminar and others, please contact Larry Bennett.