Vernon's Drone Surveillance Aircraft Could get a Workout After Hurricane Sandy

It's a safe bet to say that Vernon's new surveillance drone will see a little action next week.

And Hurricane Sandy should give it the first real test after the town's Emergency Management Department acquired it in July.

The Parrot AR Drone Wi-Fi Quadricopter is about the size of a small car tire. It featured high definition cameras on its front and underbelly. A live feed is automatically sent to a computer screen, from which it is controlled. The craft can also be flown via a smart phone app.

The craft can travel 300 meters both vertically and horizontally, Purcaro said. The drone retails for about $300 and with an extra battery and other optional equipment, it can be put into the air for about $400.

Vernon-based Image Works facilitated a grant to pay for it.

Town officials said the plan is to use the drone to inspect things like homes, tree tops, tall buildings and power lines after storms.