DRONE SEARCH

EYES IN THE SKY

Drones have revolutionized the field of search and rescue by providing aerial perspectives and capabilities that were previously unattainable.

Also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a drone is an aircraft without a human pilot on board. It is controlled remotely or autonomously by a pilot on the ground. Drones are equipped with cameras, sensors, and other advanced technology that allows them to gather valuable data and imagery.

EDSAR Drone pilots have a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Obtaining this certification requires extensive training in aviation regulations, airspace rules, and drone operations. Drone pilots are required to pass a knowledge test and practical flight test to ensure they can safely and effectively utilize drones in a variety of challenging conditions.

EDSAR drone above El Dorado County's sprawling backcountry of dense forests and cliffs

El Dorado Search and Rescue's Drone Team uses drones for:

Analyzing drone data and transforming it into actionable information is a significant challenge.

El Dorado Search and Rescue drone used to perform initial reconnaissance of search area along shoreline

EDSAR drone used to perform initial reconnaissance of search area along shoreline

El Dorado Search and Rescue drone used to monitor the team's safety real-time in case of avalanche

EDSAR drone monitors the team's safety real-time in case of avalanche

Night-time footage from a drone camera show blurry humans, trees, and power lines. Drone technology is rapidly advancing and quickly outdating models with less capable cameras and sensors.

Drone technology is rapidly advancing and quickly outdating models with less capable cameras and sensors

Image of two hands holding a red heart that has the logo for El Dorado County Search and Rescue with text at the bottom in red that says "CLICK TO DONATE"

The EDSAR Drone Team is leading innovations to analyze and integrate drone data and make it meaningful, especially in the search and rescue context.

Your support will equip EDSAR's Drone Team with state-of-the-art technology. By investing in high-quality drones, expert training, and cutting-edge analysis tools, we can harness the power of real-time drone data to save lives and protect communities