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Drones in action: rescue workers test innovative search techniques!
Disaster protection exercise in Weilheim-Schongau: Using drones to search for people strengthens cooperation between emergency services organizations.
Drones in action: rescue workers test innovative search techniques!
In an exciting demonstration run, the emergency services in the Weilheim-Schongau district demonstrated their skills in handling drones. On August 10, 2025, a large-scale disaster control exercise took place in the Haid district of Wessobrunn, in which all emergency response organizations were involved. The aim was to gain valuable insights for future operations. A total of five drones were used, which were equipped with the latest technology, including infrared cameras, thermal imaging devices and LED headlights.
A total of 35 emergency services took part in the exercise and searched for missing people in designated areas. This targeted approach made it possible to test and optimize the efficiency of drone operations. The images captured by the drones were transmitted in real time to large screens in emergency vehicles and mobile devices, making on-site decision-making much easier.
The versatility of drone technology
The exercise not only demonstrated the search techniques, but also revealed the diverse applications of drones in civil protection. According to the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, drones can be deployed quickly and provide precise, usable data that is essential for situation investigation and presentation. In addition to searching for people, the most common uses include detecting embers in fires and detecting hazardous substances and radiation sources. These versatile capabilities could lead to drones becoming the standard means of disaster control in the future. bbk.bund.de reports.
The potential of drone technology is considerable, but its use poses risks, particularly in densely populated areas. Therefore, recommendations for a uniform regulation on the use of drones in civil protection were developed in 2019. These recommendations have been summarized in the revised EGRED 2, which presents standards for planning, implementation and training in drone use. These guidelines take into account both new findings and current legal frameworks.
A successful conclusion
The district fire inspector Uwe Wieland expressed his satisfaction with the findings collected and emphasized the importance of getting to know each other and exchanging ideas between the different organizations. The joint exercises not only strengthen cohesion, but also improve operational readiness in emergencies. After a long day of collaboration, the exercise came to a ceremonial conclusion with a cozy barbecue in front of the Haider fire station.
The future of drone technology in disaster relief looks promising. With further training and exercises, the emergency services will be able to respond to emergencies even more efficiently. It remains to be seen how the technology and the corresponding legal framework will develop in the coming years, but the course is clearly set towards an optimized and safer use of drones. lba.de highlights the importance of civil protection.