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SF Officials Look To Fly Drones For Emergencies, Security

KCBS_740SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- Drone use could be coming to San Francisco in a big way.

City officials are looking to allow 5 departments to use drones to respond to emergencies, assist in investigations and improve security.

The 5 departments are: the controller's office, the fire department, public utilities commission, the port and the rec and park department.

Discussion about drone use have been going on for more than a year.

City officials say the devices would be in use for a one-year pilot.

The Fire Department would utilize drones in emergencies, such as aiding in rescues at Ocean Beach. The Port's uses include security for "properties and assets".

The public utilities commission would use drones "in extremely hard-to-reach areas outside of the City.

Rec and Park would use drones for inspections of property and landscapes.

The City Controller's Office would use drones to examine areas after emergencies or disasters to estimate cost recovery.

Civil rights groups have long expressed concerns over drones.

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