Kaua‘i Search and Rescue receives grant for drone program

Kaua‘i Search and Rescue was awarded $11,000 from local State Farm agents to pay for a drone program.

The grant provides for the acquisition and deployment of drones, training for SAR teams, and the development of an integrated system to facilitate SAR operations in Kaua‘i County. The new program also provides first responders with thermal imaging technology for night operations when requested by an agency, and equips the organization with the most advanced tools available to save lives, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.

“Search efforts are restricted due to safety concerns imposed by our challenging terrain,” said Kaua‘i SAR President Noelle Hamilton-Cambeilh. “Individuals must endure overnight exposure to the elements until search operations can safely resume in daylight. Thanks to technological advancements and this grant from State Farm, KSAR is adding a valuable resource should agencies seek to conduct nighttime search and rescue missions, drastically improving the safety and efficiency of operations.”

Drones using thermal imaging can be invaluable in disaster response situations, as it allows teams to identify survivors and assess damage in areas affected by natural disasters. The combination of night vision capabilities and thermal imaging positions Kaua‘i County to be better prepared for the diverse challenges it faces, from missing hikers in remote locations to post-disaster response in challenging terrains.

“As the climate is changing and increasing the frequency and intensity of these disasters, the need for adaptive and innovative tools has never been greater,” Hamilton-Cambeilh said.