The Town of Paradise is allocating $5,000 to support the Rovers Search and Rescue (SAR) fundraising campaign for a new UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) equipped with an infrared camera.
“We are proud to support the Rovers Search and Rescue in their fundraising efforts for this new equipment. The Rovers provide an important service to the entire Northeast Avalon region, and for that reason, our Council has challenged all our neighbouring municipalities to support this significant fundraising project,” said Mayor Dan Bobbett.
The UAV model needed by the Rovers SAR excels in environments affected by electrical interference such as hydro sub-stations, transmission lines and cellular phone towers, and is rated to fly in wet environments, sub-zero temperatures and above moderate wind speed. Once acquired, the UAV will only be operated by Transport Canada certified UAV pilots.
“We thank the Town of Paradise for their contribution towards our fundraising campaign,” said Harry Blackmore, Team Coordinator, Rovers SAR. “Over the past few years, we are seeing a noticeable increase in searches for children and vulnerable persons and this equipment will enhance our search capabilities and the service we provide to the entire Northeast Avalon Region.”
Rovers Search and Rescue is a volunteer organization based in Paradise. Founded in 1972, it consists of 75 professional volunteers who are activated by police authorities, to search for lost and missing persons. In 2017, the volunteers contributed over 13,000 hours of service to the region.
Media Contacts:
Diane Keough, Communications Manager, Town of Paradise
709.782.2603 (office) or 709.769.4212 (cell)
Harry Blackmore
Rovers Search and Rescue
709.682.4834