OREGON - The Oregon Department of Aviation is launching a study to explore the use of drones in firefighting. These drones, weighing 250 pounds, are expected to provide firefighters with critical data quickly and efficiently.

Currently, thunderstorms and lightning frequently ignite small fires, which are detected by satellites or cameras. However, inspecting these fires closely often requires expensive helicopter deployments. The introduction of drones, such as Yamaha's Fazer S-A-R, could change this.

These drones are being repurposed to assist with wildfire management across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. "If you can send out a drone, check [the fire] out, and then if necessary, put it out on the spot, guess what?" said Kenji Sugahara, Director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. "

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