The Vinita Fire Department, the Craig County Technical Rescue Task Force, Welch Fire Department, and the Craig County Sheriff’s Office worked together to look for a man who had been reported missing on Saturday night.
Search crews did ground searches and eventually picked up a heat signature with a thermal drone. Crews were able to find the missing man alive. The man was taken for medical treatment, as he was out in extremely low temperatures and snow.
The Vinita Fire Department used their thermal drone to help with the search and said that thanks to the technology, they were able to provide directions to the missing person’s location from the air.
“Our drone saves lives and increases first responder safety by limiting the time our responders have to brave dangerous conditions like this we had Saturday night with temperatures near zero degrees, strong winds, and blowing snow,” said Vinita Fire.
Vinita Fire said as a fully volunteer-based task force that is dependent on donations and grants, they are incredibly grateful for those who have helped them acquire the lifesaving equipment.