Drone interferes in first responder efforts at serious collision in Manitoba over weekend
Manitoba RCMP are stressing the importance of not flying drones near where first responders are working.
The urgent warning comes after a drone was flown near a serious collision over the weekend, which delayed STARS air ambulance from arriving at the scene, because it could not safely land.
“Fortunately in this case, the delay did not have serious consequences to operations at the scene,” read a statement from RCMP.
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At this time, RCMP have not been able to identify the drone operator, but say the incident could result in a fine of up to $1,000.
“In an emergency, it is imperative that all necessary resources are able to respond,” said Corporal Ryan Cadotte of the Manitoba RCMP Remotely Piloted Aircraft System unit. “I urge all drone pilots to be responsible and ensure they know and follow all regulations under the Canadian Aviation Regulations. These regulations are in place for everyone’s safety.”
Drone usage
Mounties are reminding everyone that the use of drones is regulated by Transport Canada.
According to regulations, drones must be:
- below 90 m above the ground,
- at least 30 m away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 250 g up to 1 kg),
- at least 75 m away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your drone weighs more than 1 kg up to 35 kg),
- at least 5.5 km away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base, or areas where aircraft take-off and land),
- at least 1.8 km away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only,
- outside of controlled or restricted airspace,
- at least 9 km away from a natural hazard or disaster area,
- away from areas where operation could interfere with fire fighters, police or first responders,
- during the day and not in clouds or smoke,
- within your sight at all times,
- within 500 m of yourself or closer,
- must be clearly marked with your name, address and phone number,
Additional rules, regulations and requirements can be found here.
