Nighttime Accident Mapping Training by Drone Pilots in Stanton County

The Nighttime Training Event:

Date: December 9, 2023

In a collaborative effort to enhance emergency response capabilities, drone pilots from various agencies in Northeast Nebraska came together for a comprehensive training session on nighttime accident mapping. Hosted by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Advexure, this event provided valuable insights and expertise on using drones and advanced technology to improve accident scene analysis in low-light conditions.

A dedicated group of drone pilots from the Madison County Sheriff's Department, Norfolk Nebraska Police Division, Norfolk Nebraska Fire and Rescue, Cuming County NE Emergency Management, and Stanton County Emergency Management joined forces for a specialized training session that spanned over six hours. The training was facilitated by Aaron Beckman, an expert in drone technology and mapping, and was organized in collaboration with Advexure. With the use of FoxFury lighting and special guest Chris with Trimble Inc., this unique event aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to map accident scenes effectively at night.

Key Takeaways:

The training session covered many critical topics, focusing on leveraging drones for nighttime accident mapping. Here are some of the key takeaways from this informative event:

1. Camera Settings: Participants learned the importance of optimizing camera settings for nighttime operations, ensuring they could capture high-quality images and data even in low-light conditions.

2. Lighting Positions: The training emphasized the strategic placement of FoxFury lighting equipment to illuminate accident scenes, enabling accurate data collection.

3. Critical Information Gathering: Drone pilots were trained to collect critical information, including accident scene details, vehicle positions, and potential hazards.

4. Accuracy in Measurements: Achieving precision in measurements is crucial for accident reconstruction. The training focused on techniques to ensure accurate measurements using drones.

5. Pre-Mission Parameters: Before each mission, participants learned how to establish essential parameters to maximize the effectiveness of their drone operations.

6. Mapping in Low-Light Conditions: One of the primary objectives of the training was to equip drone pilots with the skills necessary to map accident scenes in challenging low-light scenarios.

7. Mapping Longer Distances: In situations where accidents occur over longer distances, the training provided insights into effectively mapping areas exceeding 500 feet.

8. Merging Multiple Maps and Missions: Participants gained expertise in merging multiple maps and missions, streamlining the data analysis process.

Acknowledgements:

The success of this training event would not have been possible without the dedication of Aaron Beckman, whose expertise and guidance were instrumental in educating participants on nighttime accident mapping techniques. Deputy Jensen also deserves special thanks for hosting the event and facilitating collaboration among the participating agencies.

The nighttime accident mapping training represents a significant step forward in enhancing emergency response capabilities in our area. By harnessing the power of drones, lighting, and advanced technology, these dedicated drone pilots are better equipped to provide swift and accurate assistance during nighttime accidents. This collaborative effort serves as a testament to the commitment of these agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of their communities, even in the most challenging conditions and working together to achieve a common goal.