As New York City ushers in the summer season, a groundbreaking initiative is set to redefine beach safety across its 14 miles of shoreline. Starting May 24, drones equipped with life-saving technology will patrol city beaches daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering rapid response capabilities to swimmers in distress.
These state-of-the-art drones are designed to detect swimmers in trouble, identify dangerous water conditions, and even spot sharks. They can deploy auto-inflating life rafts and communicate directly with beachgoers through onboard speakers. In a unique twist, some drones will feature pre-recorded messages in Mayor Eric Adams’ voice, providing calming instructions during emergencies.
The deployment comes in response to a concerning rise in beach-related incidents, with seven drownings reported in 2024—the highest since 2019. A pilot program last year demonstrated the effectiveness of drone-assisted rescues, contributing to 26 successful interventions. Building on this success, the city is expanding the program as part of a comprehensive ‘Summer Safety Plan.
In addition to drone surveillance, the New York Police Department (NYPD) and Fire Department (FDNY) will increase their presence on the water, deploying additional boats and all-terrain vehicles to support search and rescue operations. Lifeguards will be stationed at all city beaches from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., ensuring a multi-layered approach to beach safety.
Mayor Adams emphasized the city’s commitment to a safe and enjoyable summer for all residents and tourists. Beachgoers are urged to adhere to safety guidelines, including swimming only when lifeguards are present, avoiding alcohol, and paying attention to rip current warnings.
As technology becomes an integral part of public safety, New York City’s innovative use of drones sets a precedent for urban beach management, blending human oversight with advanced tools to protect its citizens.