Merrimack Valley Newsmakers

Author: WHAV Staff

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Haverhill Police Uses 3 Drones to Better Move Traffic, Possibly Save Lives
Thursday, 16 July, 2026

Haverhill Police are using drones to assist traffic navigation and these could also soon be used to quickly get life preservers to potential drowning victims.Police Capt. Garrett Sarfde, appearing recently on WHAV’s “Win for Breakfast” show, shared what three new drones will achieve for the department. Haverhill Police first used the drones for the fourth of July fireworks ceremony, July 3, to monitor traffic and public safety. He explained how the drones helped ease the flow of traffic leaving the show.“Logistically, getting everybody out of the area when the fireworks end has always been a little bit of a challenge. This year was probably the fastest that we got people out of there because we were able to put the drone above the intersections and determine the best route to send people and make sure that people were getting onto the rout that they needed to get to,” Sarfde said.The drones, which are approximately 24 to 30 inches across, are the same type used by the U.S. military. Capabilities include thermal heat sensing, speakers that can sound pre-recorded messages and carry on one-way communication. Additionally, drones will soon be fitted with self-inflating life preservers to stop potential drowning accidents.Sarfde is one of eight trained drone pilots at Haverhill Police. He discussed the how the department plans to keep drone operators safe.“We’ll have continuing practice, continuing training, quarterly trainings with all the drone operators. Making sure that their skills are up to date, making sure that they know what they’re doing from day to day, Sarfde said. “It’s a perishable skill so if you’re not using it day to day to day, it can become a little more challenging,” he added.Sarfde explained Haverhill Police have been in communication with Amesbury and Merrimac Police for direction on how to best use the drones as they also have similar technology.The police department also communicates with Lawrence Municipal Airport when the drones are in use to ensure no interference in flights.Support the show