The South Bend Police Department has launched a new drone-as-first-responder program aimed at improving emergency response.

The department is piloting the program, known as DFR, through a one-year, no-cost partnership with Flock Safety.

Police say the drones can assist in a variety of situations, including crashes and fires, and are equipped with zoom, thermal imaging, and night vision capabilities. The devices can reach speeds of more than 50 miles per hour and have a battery life of about 40 minutes.

The drones do not record audio but do retain video. Eight trained operators within the department’s Real Time Crime Center manage the program.

Officials say weather conditions have posed challenges during early use. The department will decide whether to continue the program after the pilot period, which would cost approximately $300,000 annually.