Police to use drones to make local roads safer

Dyfed-Powys Police has announced the deployment of drones equipped with advanced technology to aid in the prevention of accidents on roads in Powys.

Specially trained officers will utilise these aerial devices to monitor and identify road users engaging in dangerous driving or riding practices at accident hotspots within the region. This innovative initiative aims to improve road safety, reduce accidents, and hold accountable those who jeopardize the well-being of themselves and others.

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Powys, known for its picturesque landscapes, attracts a significant number of drivers and motorcyclists, especially during the summer months. Unfortunately, a minority of individuals persist in displaying reckless, anti-social behavior, which poses a threat to their own safety and that of other road users.

The consequences of such actions are evident in the alarming statistics of road-related incidents in Powys. Last year alone, the county witnessed 90 serious-injury collisions and 13 fatalities, placing immense strain on resources and inflicting lasting heartache on families affected by these tragedies.

Inspector Gareth Earp said:

“Our Roads Policing Unit in partnership with Go Safe are gearing up for the coming tourist season with a focus on improving road safety and driving behaviour.

“Every year we welcome thousands of visitors to the beautiful counties that make up the Dyfed-Powys area and as a unit we are committed to ensuring that both visitors and residents are free to travel safe from harm.

 “In line with our aims to improve road safety as part of Operation Darwen and Project Edward (Every Day Without a Road Death), officers from our Roads Policing Unit will now regularly be joined by officers from our specialist drone unit and the Go Safe team and will work together to target this small minority of reckless individuals.

“This joint approach has the aim of improving road safety at its heart, with education and elimination of reckless behaviour as a core principle, coupled with the taking of enforcement where necessary.”

Dyfed-Powys is using the specialist kit to identify people committing the Fatal 5 offences, such as careless driving, speeding and using a mobile phone, with suspected sightings relayed to officers on the ground to follow-up.

Inspector Earp added:

“Officers will be taking a highly targeted approach to this new combined initiative and activities will be carefully focused on key ‘hot spots’ which have been identified from collision data and other relevant information.

“We acknowledge the fact some members of the public may be concerned at the wider use of police drones and would like to offer reassurances to them that this is about improving road safety for all road users and is simply another tool now available to us to assist us in our mission to reduce collisions, prevent harm and to promote the safe enjoyment of our beautiful force area by residents and visitors alike.”

The introduction of drones to monitor and identify dangerous driving practices marks a significant step forward in law enforcement's efforts to improve road safety. By utilising innovative technology, Dyfed-Powys Police aims to create a safer environment for all road users in Powys, protecting lives, and preventing accidents.