Park Ridge Police Deploy Drone for Enhanced Festival Security

In a move to bolster public safety, the Park Ridge Police Department has introduced drone surveillance at the annual Taste of Park Ridge festival. This new technology, reported by Fox 32 Chicago, marks a significant shift in how local law enforcement approaches security at large public events.

High-Tech Eyes in the Sky

The three-day Taste of Park Ridge, which kicked off on Thursday, is now under the watchful eye of a DJI Mavic 3 police drone. This marks the first time the department has utilized such technology for event security.

Park Ridge Police Chief Bob Kampwirth explained the decision: “We just got it this year, so this will be the first event we’re using it at. We thought about events and what we could use it for and how it would enhance our ability to provide more safety and security for people.”

Comprehensive Security Measures

The drone surveillance is part of a broader security strategy that includes:

• Officers stationed on rooftops overlooking the festival
• Increased police presence with officers patrolling in pairs
• Enhanced security measures at entry points to prevent unauthorized vehicle access

These measures reflect a growing trend in event security, with police departments taking a more visible and technologically advanced approach to public safety.

Festival Details

The Taste of Park Ridge, running from Thursday through Saturday night, offers a mix of:

• Diverse food and beverage options
• Free entertainment
• Family activities

The event concludes at 10:30 p.m. on Thursday and 11 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday.

DroneXL’s Take

The adoption of Drone Technology by the Park Ridge Police Department represents a significant step forward in public event security. This move aligns with a broader trend of law enforcement agencies across the United States integrating drones into their operations.

While some may raise concerns about privacy, the use of drones for public safety purposes, especially during large events, can provide crucial situational awareness that traditional methods may miss. As more departments follow suit, it’s likely we’ll see continued innovation in how drones are used to enhance public safety while balancing privacy concerns.

Photo courtesy of Fox 32 Chicago.