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A grandmother and her three grandchildren were stranded in a wadi near Meron in the Upper Galilee on a dark, rainy Lag B’Omer night. Unable to climb out and unsure how they would reach safety, they waited for help.
Before rescuers could reach them on foot, a drone appeared overhead. Operated by United Hatzalah volunteers, the drone located the family, illuminated the area with onboard lights, delivered thermal blankets and flashlights, and guided rescue teams to their location. The family remained safe until rescuers arrived.
As Israeli schools prepare to break for summer vacation and families head to beaches, hiking trails and waterways across the country, United Hatzalah is launching a Summer Safety Initiative aimed at reducing preventable injuries and deaths during one of the busiest recreation seasons of the year.
Drones Deliver Aid Before Rescuers Arrive
David Krispil, head of United Hatzalah’s Drone Unit, established the program a decade ago. “When we started, drones could stay in the air for about 15 minutes,” he said. “Today, we have platforms that can fly for nearly an hour and carry much heavier equipment.”
“Half a kilogram can make the difference,” Krispil said. “We can deliver items such as EpiPens, defibrillators, tourniquets and bleeding-control equipment directly to a patient before rescue teams arrive.”
“Our drones use thermal imaging and artificial-intelligence systems that can identify human figures beyond what the human eye can detect. We can scan very large areas, including locations far offshore.”
Protecting Israelis on Land and Water
United Hatzalah’s summer preparations also extend to the Sea of Galilee. The organization operates a dedicated Aquatic Rescue Boat staffed by specially trained volunteers and supported by drone technology. Among the tools available are drones capable of delivering flotation devices and life rings to swimmers in distress.
According to Beterem—Safe Kids Israel, drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional death among children under 18 in Israel. United Hatzalah officials say preparation and prevention are critical heading into the summer months.
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