Search and Rescue (SAR) Drone Operations

This is a two-day SAR drone specific course. A prerequisite to attending this course is to have an Advanced Pilot certificate.

 Note: this is separate from the 4 day First Responder Training (which only briefly highlights this subject matter in the classroom).

Search and Rescue (SAR) Drone Operations

Prerequisites: Advanced Pilot Certificate

The Search and Rescue (SAR) Drone Operations practical training course is a hands-on, instructor-led program is designed to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge required to effectively use drones and thermal imaging technology in search and rescue missions.

Throughout this course, you will learn to integrate drone operations into SAR scenarios, mastering techniques for locating missing persons, assessing hazardous environments, and improving mission outcomes using advanced thermographic tools.

By the end of the training, you’ll be prepared to confidently apply drone-based search and rescue strategies, analyze thermal imagery, and contribute to real-world emergency response operations with precision and efficiency.

Modules

Day 1: Fundamentals & Basic Skills

Morning

• Introduction to SAR Operations & Drones
• Drone types and payloads for SAR missions
• Basics of Thermography: Understanding thermal imaging and human heat signatures
• Pre-flight planning and safety protocols

Afternoon

• Hands-on Drone Setup and Calibration
• Basic Flight Exercises: Manual control and search patterns
• Real-time Thermal Imaging Practice in Open Terrain

Day 2: Advanced Techniques & Mission Simulation

Morning

• Advanced Search Techniques for Various Terrains (forest, urban, water)
• Night Operations & Low-Visibility Search Strategies
• Interpreting Complex Thermal Imagery

Afternoon

• Full-Scale Search and Rescue Simulation
• Real-time Thermal Analysis & Mission Execution
• Post-Mission Debrief and Feedback
• Course Wrap-Up & Certification Presentation