SFU researcher develops new tech-savvy search and rescue system
PhD student Brennan Jones wants to lend a helping hand to the B.C. search and rescue volunteers he calls heroes.
The BC Search and Rescue Association says crews around the province responded to more than two thousand calls in 2021 – the Province’s highest total since the BCSARA started recording data.
"That’s one of the things that gets me excited to work with them, is their passion to save lives,” Brennan said.
"That sort of gives me passion to help them in whatever way I can to help them save lives.”
Working out of SFU’s School of Interactive Arts, Brennan developed a system involving 360-degree body cameras and live-streaming technology to assist search and rescue efforts.
"It’s called RescueCASTR,” said Brennan. “The acronym stands for Search and Rescue Contextual Awareness Streaming.”
Jones says current SAR methods rely mostly on audio technology such as the two-way radio. His system, however, would provide visual assistance in real-time.
"We sort of send search and rescue field teams in with body cameras which both record and live-stream visual contextual information about their surroundings and their safety,” said Jones. “Making communication easier and more efficient.”
Jones admits the live-streaming doesn’t work in all terrain due to connectivity issues, but says the cameras are always recording and still provide valuable information for investigators mapping out the area.
"It’s an interesting idea,” said Doug Pope, manager with North Shore Rescue. “I like the way it kind of puts a lot of information in one place."
Although most people were saved in 2021, the year still saw nearly 100 people discovered dead or never found at all. The BCSARA recently launched a video education series prior to what’s expected to be a busy May long-weekend outdoors.
“These videos will help hikers get prepared,” said Sandra Riches, executive director of the BC Adventure Smart Program.
Meanwhile, Jones says the RescueCASTR system is in the proof of concept phase and may be years away from implementation. Until then, SAR crews say the best way to avoid needing their help is to plan ahead and bring proper equipment on their adventure.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
'Most of the city is evacuating': Gridlock on Alberta highway after evacuation order in Fort McMurray
Four Fort McMurray neighbourhoods were ordered to evacuate on Tuesday as a wildfire gets closer to the city.
Sask. police seize 1.5M pieces of evidence, lay 60 more charges in child exploitation case
Saskatchewan RCMP have revealed that a historic sexual assault investigation has led to the discovery of alleged crimes against children dating back to 2005.
'Inappropriate' behaviour shuts down Dublin to New York City portal
Less than a week after two public sculptures featuring a livestream between Dublin, Ireland, and New York City debuted, 'inappropriate behaviour' in real-time interactions between people in the two cities has prompted a temporary shutdown.
Oilers starting Calvin Pickard in goal for Game 4 vs. Canucks
The Edmonton Oilers will start Calvin Pickard in net Tuesday for Game 4 of their playoff series with the Vancouver Canucks.
Biden administration moving ahead on US$1 billion arms package for Israel, AP sources say
The Biden administration has told key lawmakers it is sending a new package of more than US$1 billion in arms and ammunition to Israel, two congressional aides said Tuesday.
King Charles III unveils his first official portrait since his coronation
King Charles III has unveiled the first portrait of the monarch completed since he assumed the throne, a vivid image that depicts him in the bright red uniform of the Welsh Guards against a background of similar hues.
Full List Are these Canada's best restaurants? Annual top 100 list revealed
The annual list of Canada's top restaurants in the country was just released and here are the places that made the 2024 cut.
Alberta announces the 4 health agencies that will replace AHS later this year
The province has released more information on its plan to break up Alberta Health Services and replace it with four sector-based health agencies.
Maximum payout for LifeLabs class-action drops from $150 estimate to $7.86
Canadian LifeLabs customers who filed an application for a class-action settlement began receiving their payments this week, though at a much lower amount than initially expected.