A new RECCO Search and Rescue Helicopter Detector has arrived at the Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopters base. The cutting-edge device is designed to dramatically improve search and rescue operations.
The equipment covers ground much more quickly than traditional search methods and is capable of rapidly scanning large areas of bush or alpine terrain to locate missing people. Suspended beneath a helicopter as a sling load, the device allows crews to cover wide search zones quickly and efficiently.
“This could be a real life-saver when we are searching for people in the bush or in an avalanche,” says Rick Knight, Air Rescue Crew Chief at GCH Aviation.
“Right now, Christchurch will be home to the only South Island detector, making it a critical asset for South Island operations. RECCO intends to eventually place another unit further south, but for now, we’re proud to be leading this innovation for the South Island.”
These small RECCO reflectors require no batteries or activation and can be easily detected by the helicopter locator system. They can be built into jackets, backpacks, or other equipment or clothing. The detector can also pick up signals from electronic devices such as mobile phones and smart watches.
“If the lost person has a reflector in their jacket or backpack, the helicopter detector can pick up the signal quickly whether in dense bush or avalanche conditions,” says Andrew Hobman of Avalanche New Zealand and RECCO spokesperson.
“This equipment has been designed in Sweden for exactly this purpose and has a proven track record. With New Zealand joining 32 countries already using the technology, we’re proud to see it now supporting Kiwi search and rescue operations.”
The detector only arrived in the South Island on the 5 September and was immediately deployed the next day Saturday 6 September to help SARs try to find a missing man on the West Coast.
The arrival of this technology represents a major step forward for search and rescue in New Zealand, strengthening the ability of SAR teams to respond swiftly and effectively in life-threatening and time critical situations. It’s a game changer said Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood , West Coast SAR Coordinator.
More information on the RECCO products is available on the RECCO website.
