CODY, Wyo. (AP) — Emergency response crews across Wyoming now have access to Wyoming Civil Air Patrol planes equipped with infrared technology to help crews during search-and-rescue operations.

The planes, based in Casper and Jackson, use imaging technology that senses infrared radiation typically emitted from a heat source and displays it on a video screen. The cameras can be used to help pilots and drivers steer their vehicles at night and in fog, or to detect warm objects against a cooler background.

Park County Sheriff Scott Steward says the technology could mean the difference between life and death because infrared radiation sources such as body heat can be detected in complete darkness, meaning SAR operations can continue after sunset.

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