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
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature for wearing keffiyeh
MPP Sarah Jama was asked to leave the Legislative Assembly of Ontario by House Speaker Ted Arnott on Thursday for wearing a keffiyeh, a garment which has been banned at Queen’s Park.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Ex-tabloid publisher testifies he scooped up possibly damaging tales to shield his old friend Trump
As Donald Trump was running for president in 2016, his old friend at the National Enquirer was scooping up potentially damaging stories about the candidate and paying out tens of thousands of dollars to keep them from the public eye.
Here's why provinces aren't following Saskatchewan's lead on the carbon tax home heating fight
After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government would still send Canada Carbon Rebate cheques to Saskatchewan residents, despite Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's decision to stop collecting the carbon tax on natural gas or home heating, questions were raised about whether other provinces would follow suit. CTV News reached out across the country and here's what we found out.
Montreal actress calls Weinstein ruling 'discouraging' but not surprising
A Montreal actress, who has previously detailed incidents she had with disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, says a New York Court of Appeals decision overturning his 2020 rape conviction is 'discouraging' but not surprising.
Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye make it four NFL drafts with quarterbacks going 1-3
Caleb Williams is heading to the Windy City, aiming to become the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.