Belmar Lifeguards Test Drones To Assist In Lifesaving Efforts

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BELMAR, N.J. (CBS) — Lifeguards in Belmar, New Jersey are testing out a drone to one day assist in lifesaving efforts.

The town of Belmar has partnered with Rutgers University to tweak how drone-assisted rescues will work.

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In the future, a lifeguard could send the drone out carrying an inflatable vest.

"We found that the drone can get out to a person about one minute faster than say a lifeguard who is having to battle through a heavy surf," Dr. Hugh Roarty of Rutgers University.

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Once the drone reaches the swimmer, the vest is dropped.

The whole thing is designed to buy lifeguards more time.

The drone will also be tested as a walkie-talkie, allowing rescuers on shore to communicate with swimmers in the water.