The Champaign Fire Department received a $5,000 grant from Marathon Petroleum Company to enhance the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program. This grant will be used to upgrade equipment and provide additional training for pilots in the program.
Advancements in UAS has provided a new opportunity to provide lifesaving information during emergency operations including hazardous materials response, natural disasters, water/ice rescues, large fires and live fire training exercises. This new equipment will possess technology not present on the Department’s current drones.
Media Contact: Randy Smith, Deputy Fire Marshal | Phone: (217) 403-7212