AI enhances search and rescue operations by rapidly processing images, enabling accurate geolocation of individuals lost in the wilderness. Recent applications include the quick location of a hiker in Italy after using AI analyzed drone imagery. Future developments may allow drones to autonomously monitor reports and initiate searches. However, ethical concerns arise regarding consent and the potential misuse of technology, as some individuals may not wish to be found. Effective implementation requires balancing technology capabilities with ethical considerations around personal privacy and safety.
"You could have a fully automated system that monitors reports and triggers drone-based search efforts before a human has lifted a finger," Ewers tells Axios.
"AI's contribution is that it can dramatically reduce the time to process imagery and do it more accurately than humans," David Kovar states.
"If it's used to save lives and private data used in a rescue operation is wiped after a hiker is found, there is less of a concern," William Budington explains.
"There will be cases where, for example, a person who is a victim of domestic violence says she's going out hiking, but she's not. She's not intending to come back," Greg Nojeim discusses.
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