AI, Drones, and Autism Response: Advancing Search & Rescue with AFRS

12/10/2024

Clinton County

Wilmington, OH

At Farva Technology, we are proud to support AFRS.US, providing them with access to our software free of charge. This collaboration allows us to test our code in the field, receive immediate feedback, and continue improving technology designed to keep families safe.

In February 2024, AFRS firefighter drone pilots responded to a critical call in Adams County, Ohio: a missing child with Autism. The urgency of the moment inspired new conversations about how artificial intelligence (AI) could transform search and rescue operations.

Shortly after, AFRS conducted groundbreaking experiments using Farva Tech AI concepts to generate search areas and analyze map data. What normally takes a trained team 30–60 minutes, AI accomplished in less than a minute—prioritizing the highest-probability areas and demonstrating remarkable accuracy.

This breakthrough sparked discussions with leaders at Boston University and other institutions about creating a nationwide AI-powered system for first responders. While funding challenges slowed progress, momentum has not stopped.

On December 10, 2024, AFRS leadership met with the team from AutismCincy.org to discuss how AI can assist in locating missing children with Autism. Together, they identified immediate opportunities—such as incorporating Autism awareness and response training into police, fire, and EMS academies—to better prepare first responders while advanced technology continues to develop.

We at Farva Tech are honored to play a part in this mission by providing technology that supports AFRS’s vision.

👉 If you’d like to support AFRS directly, consider making a tax-deductible donation at www.afrs.us/giving - Every contribution helps create life-changing advancements in Ohio and beyond.

Together, we can bring hope to families and build a brighter future for all.