Drones for high-rise fire battles from next year

Drones are being tested to lift firefighting equipment on to burning high-rises and locate people trapped inside. The remote-controlled devices would use thermal-imaging cameras to find people and fire flashpoints, and could be used to carry gear to battle blazes from next year. Similar devices are already being used in the US to investigate forest fires, evaluate the severity of a blaze in buildings and to assist firefighters. Tests are being carried out on 15 drones in a special civil defence unit and more devices will be commissioned as part of efforts to swiftly save lives and contain damage to property.