The volunteer group has just taken delivery of a $5000 drone courtesy of Sweat v Steam, which has been specifically designed to assist crime-scene investigations and public safety.
The drone photographs road accidents and gathers forensic data for police such as measurements of road marks, speed analysis and other factors contributing to accidents.
Search and Rescue squad member Barry Brown – who is overseeing the implementation of the drone program – said the drone also had the potential to speed-up rescue missions.
“We can secure the scene, protect it, safely remove hazards and then get to work,” Mr Brown said.
The drone will also provide aerial support for search and rescues on land and water.
Mr Brown said squad members who choose to operate the drone will be fully trained to Civil Aviation Safety Authority standards and be fully accredited.
“There are cowboy operators out there, but our squad members will be trained in simulators and in training zones and then do their work professionally and safely, as they do in all situations,” he said.
Mr Brown said the squad provides a crucial service for the community.
“They are the only ones in the area that can cut people out of cars in an emergency,” he said.
The group is highly trained and certified in first-aid, CPR, CFA courses and glass protection, to name just a few.
“Our training is continuous, we are always honing our skills, learning new techniques and training on new technology,” Mr Brown said.
18°C