FAMU Introduces Drone First Responder Technology During Homecoming Week
New technology will provide emergency responders with real-time aerial information to help assess incidents and coordinate resources
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As Florida A&M University (FAMU) welcomes thousands of students, alumni, visitors and fans for Homecoming 2026, the university is advancing its public safety capabilities through the installation of a Drone First Responder (DFR) system designed to support emergency response and situational awareness.
Installed on October 20, the Skydio DFR system is undergoing limited operational testing during Homecoming week. Operated by the Tallahassee-Leon County Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA), the system is designed to provide responders with a real-time aerial view of qualifying public safety incidents, helping them assess situations and make informed decisions before arriving on scene. The Skydio system is manufactured in the United States and meets Florida requirements for drones used by public agencies (s. 934.50, F.S.).
The technology may support emergency response during large campus events by helping responders assess incidents, observe crowd movement and traffic conditions, and locate individuals who may need assistance. This additional perspective can help FAMU Police, dispatch personnel and event partners better coordinate resources in a busy campus environment.
“Providing a safe environment for our students, employees and visitors remains a priority for FAMU Police, particularly during major events such as Homecoming,” said Chief Audrey Alexander. “The Drone First Responder system offers another tool to help our officers better understand what is happening at an incident and coordinate an appropriate response. By combining technology with the experience and judgment of our public safety professionals, we can strengthen our ability to respond effectively while helping protect the Rattler community.”
The system is designed to launch in response to qualifying calls for service. Trained operators at CDA can deploy the drone from its dock and transmit live video to dispatchers and responding public safety personnel, including FAMU Police.
FAMU’s Department of Emergency Management views the technology as an additional resource for supporting preparedness, coordination and response during large-scale university events.
“Large events like Homecoming depend on a shared, accurate picture of what is happening across campus. The Drone First Responder system gives our public safety partners another source of real-time information to support coordinated decisions, getting the right resources to the right place faster,” said Assistant Vice President of Emergency Management, Ashley H. Davis, Ph.D. “We see it as one more tool supporting the unified approach FAMU and its partners bring to every major event.”
The university recognizes that responsible use of public safety technology must include respect for privacy. The DFR system is intended to support specific public safety calls and events, not routine surveillance of students, classrooms or residence halls. Flights are documented and tied to a public safety purpose.
“Community members should also be aware that the presence of a public safety drone overhead does not necessarily indicate an emergency. It may be conducting system testing or supporting event safety activities,” said Alexander.
The system’s full operational deployment will begin after testing is completed and CDA and FAMU Police confirm that it is ready for use. The university will share additional updates through official FAMU communication channels.
The use of personal drones on campus is prohibited unless approved in advance by the FAMU Police Department. FAMU encourages individuals operating personal drones to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and applicable university requirements. Portions of campus may fall within controlled airspace surrounding Tallahassee International Airport, where FAA authorization is required before flying, and temporary flight restrictions may be issued for major events. All operators, including recreational flyers, should check current FAA requirements before flying. Individuals should avoid flying drones near emergency activity or large crowds during Homecoming, as unauthorized flights may interfere with public safety operations. Flying drones over Bragg Memorial Stadium during football games is prohibited by university policy and will be enforced by law enforcement.
For questions about the Drone First Responder system, contact FAMU Police Department at 850-599-3256.
Media contact:
Alonda Thomas, Ph.D.
Alonda.Thomas@FAMU.edu
