They recorded video of the flooding and damages.
Frederick, Md (KM) Drones were used in Frederick County during last month’s flooding. Director of Emergency Management, Jack Markey, says they were used to shoot video of the flooding and the damage caused by the high waters. “The Division of Fire and Rescue Services has recognized that that capability to be able to visualize a problem without putting people in harms’ way, or to give a perspective that you really can’t get even from an aerial ladder,” he says.
Chief Markey also says a drone taking shots from the air is far better than a helicopter. “A helicopter is costly to fly; challenging to get there. We do have great support from the Maryland State Police when required. But a drone really gives a quick ability to put eyes on a problem,” he says.
In addition, Markey says the drones were used to document the damage from the May floods. “We’ve heard nothing but positive reviews from the FEMA Damage Assessment Teams, State Highway and others about the ability to document what happened, and give us a good look at how to do we rebuild,”: he says.
Drones will probably be used during future flooding and other disasters, Markey says.
Meanwhile, the Maryland Department of Human Services has partnered with Frederick and Washington Counties to set up a hotline to help residents in obtaining social services and state p programs to assist persons who affected by the flooding. The number to call is 1-888-756-7836, The e-mail address is [email protected].
In a statement, Frederick County officials say this is a referral and information services hotline. It will not provide direct services to citizens, but it can tell them where to find the necessary services.
The hotlilne will be in operation Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 7:00 PM, and on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Meanwhile, residents and businesses which have not do so yet can still take the post-assessment survey. They can go on line to www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/recover. and describe the damage they endured during the floods. The deadline to respond is June 15th. The data gathered will be used by the County to support its request for federal disaster assistance.
By Kevin McManus