Ohio Launches Drone First Responder Pilot Program

Nine communities, including Amherst, will test remotely launched drones for emergency response.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Ohio Department of Transportation announced a new year-long pilot program to test the use of drones for emergency response in nine communities across the state, including Amherst. The goal is to speed up emergency response times and improve safety for police, fire, and EMS crews by using drones to provide live video and, in some cases, deliver critical medical supplies.

Why it matters

This pilot program is part of Ohio's broader effort to leverage technology to support public safety. Drones could potentially revolutionize emergency response by providing real-time aerial footage and rapid delivery of supplies, which could save lives in critical situations.

The details

The Ohio Statewide Drone First Responder Pilot Program will launch drones remotely from docking stations and fly them to emergency scenes. The drones will provide live video feeds to first responders and, in some cases, deliver essential medical supplies. The state selected a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities to participate in the year-long pilot, which is expected to begin in the spring.

  • The year-long pilot program is expected to begin in the spring of 2026.
  • The program was announced by the Ohio Department of Transportation this week.

The players

Ohio Department of Transportation

The state agency overseeing the Ohio Statewide Drone First Responder Pilot Program.

Gov. Mike DeWine

The Governor of Ohio, who stated that the program is part of the state's focus on using technology responsibly to support public safety.

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What they’re saying

“Ohio is committed to giving our first responders the tools they need to protect lives and serve their communities safely and effectively.”

— Gov. Mike DeWine

What’s next

The pilot program is expected to begin in the spring of 2026 and run for one year, after which the state will evaluate the results and determine next steps for expanding or continuing the use of drones for emergency response.

The takeaway

This drone pilot program represents Ohio's proactive approach to leveraging emerging technologies to improve public safety and emergency response capabilities, which could serve as a model for other states looking to adopt similar innovative solutions.