Myrtle Beach never used $60K life-saving robots because of technical issues

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — The Chamber of Commerce in Myrtle Beach spent more than $60,000 last year to buy four robots to help lifeguards save lives.

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Our news partners at WPDE learned the robots, called Emilys, have never been used.

According to the company's website, the devices are designed to travel up to 22 mph and are outfitted with two-way communication, a live streaming video camera and lights to use at night.

WPDE obtained emails between the fire department and the company outlining issues with the devices. Officials said the Emily's lose communication and are not reliable.

All four units were taken out of service and the president if the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce said they've reached out to the company to see if they can return the robots for a refund.

Cox Media Group