This paper analyzes the use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), in the European Union, with a case study from the Republic of Croatia. An overview is provided of the level of adoption and implementation of unmanned aerial systems in fire services that, in accordance with European standards, have introduced the use of drones in cooperation with the civil sector. Based on an analysis of the regulatory framework and documents of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), safety measures and operational procedures for drone use are proposed, along with recommendations for drone operators regarding compliance with safety standards. Particular emphasis is placed on future investments in advanced solutions involving long-range operations, beyond visual line of sight flights, night operations, and activities requiring the implementation of risk assessment.