This article presents the results of research concerning the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAVs) in operations in selected Voluntary Fire Brigade (VFB) units. In addition to literatureresearch, a survey method was used. A SWOT analysis was also carried out based on the answersprovided in the questionnaires. The provided information shows that VFBs most often use UAVsfor searching for missing persons, monitoring mass events, tracking illegal rubbish dumps, aswell as during firefighting operations including monitoring of large area fires. Also noted weresuch cases of UAV usage as smoke surveys from chimneys, monitoring of internal fires, locatingwild boar herds during African swine fever (ASF) or initial assessment of the health of an injuredperson. As part of the SWOT analysis, 12 strengths and weaknesses of the UAV were identified,as well as 5 opportunities and threats related to their implementation and application. The articleends with conclusions and recommendations for further research and implementation related toUAVs. This may serve to assure further development of this technology and give an overview ofany pros and cons of its implementation in operational activities in the general security and safetysector, including rescue units.