OxySure to use UAVs for emergency purposes

OxySure Systems Inc., a medical technology manufacture of respiratory and medical solutions, plans to use drones in its emergency medical, resuscitation and trauma relief efforts. The company filed for an exemption from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012.

According to the company, the drones will be “utilized in aerial operations in support of emergency response and services, disaster response and recovery, search and rescue and humanitarian relief efforts.” Along with the FAA exemption, OxySure also filed a provisional patent with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office entitled “System for Enhancing Emergency Response by using Unmanned Aircraft Systems.”

“The unmanned drone platform puts the power of aerial intelligence directly into the hands of first responders,” said Julian Ross, CEO of OxySure. “Historically, a big part of our focus has been to find ways to ‘bridge the gap’—meaning the time between the onset of a medical emergency and the time that professional first responders arrive on the scene. Drones are the next logical step in that quest, and as it relates to all types of emergency categories, we believe they will enhance the existing operations of first responders.”

The OxySure drones are expected to have the ability to carry payloads that comprise kits designed for various types and categories of emergencies or disasters. Typical payloads will not exceed 15 pounds. Kits could include automated external defibrillators as well as items imperative for fire, flooding, first aid, dehydration, hypothermia, respiratory distress, chemical spills and other emergency situations. OxySure says the drones will also be equipped with standard features such as live streaming and associated support equipment such as control stations, data links, telemetry, and the necessary communications. First responders, including fire departments, paramedics and hazmat response officials will receive training prior to implementing drone services.

“Providing a clear visual from a low altitude flight is extremely valuable with respect to emergency response, disaster recovery and search and rescue missions,” said Ross. “Low altitude real-time imagery assists with locating people, locating emergency situations, delivering much-needed emergency supplies quickly as an easily detachable payload, recognizing and identifying critically affected areas, locating safety zones and increasing situational awareness of identified risks and hazards, resulting in more efficient, decisive and effective response plans.”

Real-time video streaming on the drones can provide navigation and guidance and show not only the extent of the damage, but also warn responders of additional hazards. It can also allow the provision of guidance to on-scene bystanders regarding how to support the scene while the first responders are en route, the company added. 

“We are excited about the opportunities that the OxySure drones represent for emergency management and response operations for support in medical, natural and civil emergency situations and to local, state and federal entities,” added Ross. 

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