Army Of Night Vision Drones To Hunt Illegal July 4th Fireworks
California's Hanford will deploy drones with night vision and thermal imaging to identify illegal fireworks users from 400 feet, with violators facing fines starting at $1,000 per firework.
According to New York Post, the city of Hanford will launch three drones fitted with advanced technology including night vision capabilities, powerful optical zoom lenses, and thermal imaging systems once illegal fireworks activity begins around the Fourth of July.
Daniel Perkins, fire chief for the city, explained that the drones will operate at approximately 400 feet altitude with sufficient technological capacity to identify individuals lighting illegal pyrotechnics. The thermal imaging equipment can detect heat signatures from fireworks and subsequently identify the people responsible.
The fire chief made clear that privacy concerns become secondary once illegal activity is detected. The drone cameras possess the resolution to see faces and other details of what is occurring on the ground.
Perkins cited the surge in illegal fireworks use following the COVID-19 pandemic as the driving force behind the city and other California agencies securing funding for drone enforcement operations. He emphasized the serious dangers posed by illegal pyrotechnics, stating the momentary entertainment is not worth risking lives or property.
Steep Penalties Await Violators
Those caught setting off illegal fireworks face substantial financial consequences. Fines begin at $1,000 per firework and can escalate to $10,000 per person per day depending on the quantity of illegal pyrotechnics in their possession.
Criminal charges and potential jail time also await anyone found with more than 25 pounds of illegal fireworks.
The fire chief reminded Hanford residents that only safe and approved fireworks may be used between July 3rd and July 5th. Any fireworks deployed outside that narrow timeframe are considered illegal and subject to the same penalties.
Surveillance Program Aims to Deter Violations
Fire department officials hope the visible drone surveillance program will serve a deterrent function, discouraging residents from attempting to use illegal fireworks in the first place.
As an alternative, Perkins pointed to a free municipal fireworks display the city will host for residents who wish to celebrate Independence Day safely and legally.
With information from New York Post
