Arrowsmith Search and Rescue is expanding its capabilities with the addition of drones.
ASAR currently has two small drones that can be used by field teams for quick reconnaissance of hazardous areas or to expand their search area, according to a news release.
It also has a basic thermal drone that allows members to pick up subjects' heat in areas that make them difficult or impossible to see with a regular camera.
ASAR is starting its “Rescue Ready 2025” program to purchase a larger drone, the Matrice 350 RTK, with better cameras, spotlight and other features that can be flown in poor weather conditions.
To further augment this incredible tool ASAR is using a Canadian software called Eagle Eyes that uses AI to analyze drone footage.
This technology picks up colour and motion that is easily missed by the operator and observer. This new equipment, training and software will be used not just in the PQB area, but will be available to any SAR team on the Island and beyond, according to ASAR.
