How do UAVs assist in the search for missing persons?
We are using UAVs in marine and mountain rescue environments. On the West Coast of Scotland, this type of rescue can place a large demand on us. Weather conditions are often dominated by low cloud, making it difficult for traditional air support to operate effectively. The use of UAVs complements traditional air support. If we have a situation where traditional air support cannot operate due to poor weather conditions or unavailability then we can utilise UAVs as a form of it. We use the technology to trace missing persons. And due to the poor weather conditions, which can prevail in the West Coast, it is vital that we trace them as quickly as possible. We are always trying to improve our efficiency in that area. Also, efficiency gains in mountain and marine rescue searches releases our officers quickly, once the casualties are found. How is a UAV operated? The UAV is operated from a laptop; the operator can see what the aircraft is seeing. The aircraft itself could be mistaken for a r
