Last week, Berchtesgaden, Germany played host to the euRathlon, an outdoor robotics competition where 14 teams tested the intelligence, autonomy and grit of their robots that competed in mock emergency-response scenarios.
Three disaster scenarios tested the robots’ mettle: Mobile handling of hazardous materials, underground rescue from a smoke-filled environment and urban reconnaissance and surveillance. Robots also competed in a fourth category: Autonomous navigation using GPS.
The “reconnaissance and disposal of explosive devices” competition was open to the public and held at the Berchtesgaden train station. Visitors got to watch robots find and pick up duffel bags or suitcases from lockers and deactivate a mock explosive device.

Emergency Response Robots Battle For Honors

Sound of Light - Emergency Whistle for hikers

As humans, we’re naturally inclined to think “that could never happen to me,” especially when it comes to getting lost! Despite our egos, emergency situations do happen so having the right safety equipment is key. Designed specifically for hiking, the Sound of Light whistle provides novice and expert hikers with an additional level of visible and audible protection. The super bright LED and ear-shattering whistle serve as a beacon for rescuers while a built-in compass helps hikers navigate their way out of danger.
 Sound of Light - Emergency Whistle for hikers