The Bridgeport Police Department is one step closer to getting drones to help keep the community safe, according to Mayor Joe Ganim.

He says the drones will give officers an extra set of eyes on the street and help save lives.

Ganim says the city has been looking at different drone systems and is close to getting one called Flock Aerodrome.

"These drones deploy immediately, are on the scene before officers even get there. They're our eyes and ears and can warn officers as to what's going on so we can aid victims quicker," Ganim says. "This is new technology, the next step for Bridgeport in crime fighting and continuing to see Bridgeport streets get safer and safer."

Ganim says Flock Aerodrome is triggered by a variety of events, including gunshots, motor vehicle accidents and 911 calls.

He hopes the system will be up and running in the city by January.