UAV Operations
The team utilizes an unmanned aerial system (commonly referred to as a drone) with infrared cameras to search for and rescue individuals who are lost or injured in the rugged terrain of Santa Barbara County. These drones provide a bird's-eye view of the landscape, allowing for rapid search and rescue operations in areas that may be difficult to access by foot or vehicle. Infrared cameras are especially useful in locating individuals who may be hidden from view or difficult to detect, providing critical assistance in time-sensitive search and rescue missions.
Infrared Technology
Drones equipped with infrared cameras enhance operators capabilities of searching for lost or injured hikers at night. The subject’s body heat signature is contrasted by the cooler temperate of the surrounding environment.
Range
Drones allow SBCSAR to cover vast areas to search for missing persons. Often times due to poor cell service or a person not knowing exactly where they are, time is of the essense to locate that person during a medical emergency. When possible, the team will deploy a drone to scan over a 4 mile radius area to locate a person in need of rescue. Once located, the person’s location will be relayed back to team members in the field. Drones play a vital roll in the success of search operations.
