Saving lives in the desert: How drones made Mesa Fire and Medical Department's search and rescue efforts more effective

The thriving East Phoenix metropolis of Mesa Arizona, surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, has long been a playground for outdoor recreation. With convenient access to Saguaro Lake, the iconic Salt River, and endless hiking trails, it’s easy to see why Mesa is one of the fastest growing cities in America, attracting thousands of millennials seeking adventure in a natural setting. 

The desert climate and complex landscape at the outskirts of Mesa offers outdoor goers breathtaking escapes ideal for hiking and mountain biking. As with any other desert landscape, the appeal of Mesa’s untamed environment comes with its own set of dangers and cautionary tales. Out of the average 5000-plus incidents the Mesa Fire and Medical Department responds to every month, many require dedicated search and rescue missions through its trails and rugged terrain.  Continue Reading