The Edinburg Police Department is set to become the first law enforcement agency in the Rio Grande Valley to launch a drone as first responder program.

It’s an innovative initiative designed to enhance emergency response and lifesaving capabilities, according to a news release.

The DFR initiative will deploy drones to respond to emergency calls, the news release states.

“Equipped with high-definition cameras and thermal night vision, the drones can often arrive at the scene faster than the first responding officer by car,” the news release said.

As part of the program, live-streamed aerial footage will be provided to increase safety for both officers and the community.

“This is a historic step forward for public safety in the Rio Grande Valley,” Edinburg Police Chief Jaime Ayala said

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