Montgomery County's Director of Emergency Management, Rick Whitson, received funds from both Independence and Coffeyville Walmarts to pay for two drones to help increase safety and efficiency during emergencies. One drone will be stationed in Coffeyville due to the industries in the city such as the refinery. The other drone will be in Independence centrally located.

KGGF met with Whitson after yesterday's county commission meeting where he gave details and took a photo with one of the Walmart checks. Whitson explained these drones have remote video and voice capability. They can fly to the top of structures on fire, track runaway suspects, or find victims in need of care and protection. The total amount for both drones is $8,000. Whitson says he's working on securing a grant for a $28,000 drone that can withstand weather and storms, and can even carry and drop supplies to people in need.

Stay tuned to hear Rick Whitson on KGGF airwaves. For more information, contact Montgomery County Emergency Management at 620-330-7040.