AI and thermal drones are helping find the lost in B.C.’s mountains

Every year, thousands of people venture into Vancouver’s iconic North Shore Mountains for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether they are hiking, running, biking, or skiing, the rugged terrain and dense coastal rainforest provide a challenging and exhilarating experience. However, not all trips to the North Shore Mountains go according to plan. More than 100 people find themselves lost or injured in this unforgiving wilderness, prompting them to call North Shore Rescue for help.

North Shore Rescue, established in 1965, is known as Canada’s busiest volunteer search and rescue team. Their dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to locate and rescue those in distress in the mountains. With the emergence of new technology, such as drones equipped with thermal imaging and artificial intelligence software, the search and rescue process has become more efficient and effective.

Grant Baldwin, a drone operator for North Shore Rescue, explains how the use of drones has revolutionized their search operations. With the ability to scan hard-to-reach areas like gullies, creeks, and cliffs, drones provide searchers with a bird’s eye view of the terrain. The thermal imaging software allows subjects to stand out clearly, even from a distance of 60 to 90 meters in the air. This innovative technology has the potential to save many lives in the rugged and challenging terrain of the North Shore Mountains.

In a recent search for a missing hiker on Mount Seymour, drones equipped with thermal imaging software played a crucial role in locating the individual. Despite the challenging conditions and rough terrain, the drone was able to spot the hiker huddled under a tree, suffering from hypothermia. This successful rescue mission highlighted the effectiveness of using drones in search and rescue operations.

In addition to thermal imaging, North Shore Rescue is exploring the use of artificial intelligence software called Eagle Eyes. This cutting-edge technology combines the camera from a search drone with computer vision technology to detect anomalies in landscapes. The software can identify movement or clothing from a person below, even if they are less than a pixel on the screen. This advanced tool enhances the search capabilities of the rescue team, making it easier to locate lost or missing individuals in challenging environments.

While technology has significantly improved the search and rescue process, North Shore Rescue emphasizes the importance of being prepared when venturing into the mountains. Despite the innovative tools at their disposal, search and rescue operations can be challenging and unpredictable. It is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to be equipped with the necessary gear, knowledge, and skills to navigate the wilderness safely.

As North Shore Rescue continues to integrate new technology into their operations, their primary goal remains the same – to bring people to safety in the North Shore Mountains. By combining the expertise of their volunteers with the capabilities of emerging technology, they are able to respond more efficiently to calls for help and save lives in the rugged and remote wilderness of Vancouver’s iconic mountains.