Drones have changed the landscape for rescue teams  

They save lives

Drones have gradually become an integral part of the tools at the disposal of rescue teams around the world. According to the Scottish Search and Rescue Aerial Association, there are now 19 pilots and 21 drones in Scotland’s nine SMR rescue teams, up from four years ago.

In a very short period of time, drone technology has evolved from simple use during the day, to complex use with zoom capabilities, thermal imaging, and even searchlights for night missions. Some newer models can even be used in rain or strong winds.

They now also have microphones and speakers, which allow us to communicate with the people we are trying to save.

An important role of drones is reconnaissance of the field, such as cliffs, to find a safe place for rescuers to descend. Rescue groups unanimously stress that drones have “changed the game ” when it comes to searching for missing persons.