The newest member of the Lansdale Electric Department has four rotors, three operators (so far), two batteries, one camera and a long to-do list. Electric Superintendent Andy Krauss recently showed off that new addition: its “Unmanned Aerial System,” a new DJI Phantom 4 drone with features and capabilities the department is happy to have.

“A couple of months ago, people in town might have experienced some flickering lights. There’s a piece of cable here that everyone can look at, with some burn marks in the cable,” Krauss said, writes Dan Sokil in the Lansdale Reporter.

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Krauss said his department is considering whether to seek more grant or outside funding for a larger model of drone, which would cost roughly $5,000 and bring even more capabilities, like flying in inclement weather, or carrying attachments to add capabilities while deployed. Public Works staff could use the drone to track utility lines, according to Krauss and Ernst, while Parks personnel could use it to provide new views of their facilities, and communications staff could use it to show local landmarks or events like the August fireworks show from above.

“This is really important technology, and I thank council for allowing us to invest in this, for the benefit of all of us,” Ernst said.

To read the complete story click here.

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