Franklin County TDC Funds Water Rescue Drone to Enhance Beach Safety

The St. George Island Fire Department showed off its new water rescue device recently which was purchased with money from the Franklin County Tourist Development Council. 

The water rescue device is known as EMILY. Emily is a water rescue drone that allows rescuers to reach a struggling swimmer without having to enter the water themselves. The device is driven remotely and has handles for a swimmer to grab on to so they can be rescued from the water without putting the rescuer at risk.

The Tourist Development Council approved the SGI Fire Department’s request was funded under a rule that allows up to 10% of the county’s tourist development sales tax proceeds to fund eligible public safety services. The SGI Fire Department’s $68,000 request also funds a four wheel drive truck and equipment in addition to the EMILY device. 

The investment ensures that the county remains a ‘positive’ and ‘safe’ environment for visitors and residents alike.