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The Norfolk County Fire Department is reminding drone operators to stay well away from emergency scenes following last week’s massive barn fire west of Simcoe.
Officials say drones are not allowed to fly over or within the security perimeter of any police, fire or emergency response operation, including structure fires, traffic collisions and other disaster areas.
Even small drones can interfere with emergency aircraft and make it harder for firefighters, police and paramedics to do their jobs safely. Emergency crews may also need helicopters or other aircraft to respond, and unauthorized drones can delay those operations.
The department also reminds pilots that drones must not be flown within 9.3 kilometres, or five nautical miles, of an active wildfire.
Anyone planning to fly a drone is encouraged to know the rules before taking off. More information about safe and legal drone operation is available through Transport Canada’s drone safety resources: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/drone-safety
Written by Jeremy Hall
