Verizon Study Reveals Growing Adoption of AI, Drones, and Cybersecurity in First Responder Operations

Strategic Insights -

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, first responders are increasingly relying on innovative tools and solutions to enhance public safety operations. According to a new study by Verizon, nearly half of first responders anticipate daily use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and drones or robots within the next five years. The Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey, now in its fifth year, highlights significant investments in cybersecurity protections and a growing demand for highly-reliable network connectivity.

Key Takeaways:

  • AI and drone usage are poised for explosive growth, with 48% of first responders expecting to integrate these technologies into their daily operations within five years.
  • Despite only 12% of respondents currently employing AI solutions regularly, a substantial 46% anticipate daily use of these solutions within the next five years.
  • The survey noted a significant year-over-year increase in the number of respondents who view AI as a "top priority" (up 12%) or "important" (up 28%) for their agency's future.
  • Agencies are fortifying against cyber threats, with 67% of public safety agencies reporting implementation of new cybersecurity protections within the last year.
  • A reliable network remains a priority, with 65-75% of first responders identifying access to a reliable and resilient network as critical for day-to-day communications and 64-73% for emergency response communications.
  • 33% of first responders expect AR and VR to be used daily in five years, up from just 8% today.
  • 57% of respondents have more than 20 years of experience in public safety.
  • 20% of respondents reported connected vehicles as a top priority for their agency, second only to 5G connectivity.

Statistics:

  • 48% of first responders expect to integrate AI into their daily operations within the next five years.
  • 46% anticipate daily use of AI solutions within the next five years.
  • 67% of public safety agencies reported implementing new cybersecurity protections within the last year.
  • 65-75% of first responders identify access to a reliable and resilient network as critical for day-to-day communications.
  • 64-73% of first responders identify access to a reliable and resilient network as critical for emergency response communications.
  • 33% of first responders expect AR and VR to be used daily in five years.
  • 57% of respondents have more than 20 years of experience in public safety.

Sources:

  • Verizon Frontline Public Safety Communications Survey
  • Lexipol
  • IDC Research