Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are an emerging technology that are revolutionizing disaster management. This course is an introduction to UAS use in disaster management, from mitigation and preparedness to response and recovery. It is intended to help participants gain a basic understanding of UAS; learn the general concepts to help an agency build a successful UAS program; learn the importance of engaging the local community; understand the need to ensure that privacy issues, civil rights, and civil liberties are thoroughly addressed; identify when UAS would enhance a disaster mission; and understand the basics of UAS types and sensors. The overall course goal is to provide a basic overview of UAS so that agencies can learn the first steps in determining if UAS are right for their work. 

Participants will learn what is covered under UAS regulations, who may operate UAS, what FAA authorization allows, and what the major issues are for UAS integration. The course materials will familiarize participants with the main types and capabilities of rotary and fixed-wing UAS, as well as the types of payloads and missions that generally are best for each with examples of how certain payloads have been or could be used in relevant situations to aid in disaster management. 

The course provides an overview of several important elements that require full consideration when creating and operating a UAS program, including involving the local community in all stages of UAS program development, and the critical need to protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties in a UAS program, including with data collection, retention, management, security, oversight, and accountability. 

Course Modules:

• Types of Unmanned Aircraft Systems

• UAS in Disaster Management

• UAS Regulations

• Essential Elements for UAS Success

• Emergency Managment
• First Responders
• Government Administrative
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Fire Services (FS)
• Private Sector/Corporate Security/Safety
• Public Works
• Public Health
• Citizen/Community Volunteer
• Law Enforcement
• Non-Government Organizations

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain basic UAS types and component parts. 
• Explain basic UAS support capabilities in disaster management operations. 
• Determine the means to comply with UAS regulations. 
• Create a planning framework for successful UAS program.

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• Pre-test to be completed PRIOR to the course. Assists to assess familiarity with the course subject material.
• Post test to be completed at completion of course. To receive a FEMA issued Certificate of Completion, a post test score of at least 70% must be obtained.