The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is warning the public to keep drones far away from active wildfires after one was seen flying near the out-of-control Mount Underwood fire south of Port Alberni this week.
The incident happened Tuesday when a drone was reported in the vicinity of the Mount Underwood wildfire, which has now grown to more than 2,100 hectares as of Wednesday morning.
The fire is burning about 12 kilometres south of Port Alberni and has already led the city to declare a local state of emergency.
BCWS says flying a drone anywhere near a wildfire is extremely dangerous.
Low-flying firefighting aircraft, including helicopters and air tankers, operate in the area, and even a small unmanned aerial vehicle can cause catastrophic damage if it collides with them.
When a drone is spotted near a wildfire, all aerial firefighting operations must stop immediately. This delays suppression efforts and puts lives at risk.
Transport Canada and BCWS prohibit the operation of drones or UAVs of any size within five nautical miles of a wildfire and up to 3,000 feet above ground level. Violators can face fines of up to $100,000 and up to one year in jail.
Transport Canada urges drone operators to “know before you go” by checking for smoke plumes or active wildfires before flying, especially in the summer months.
Tools like the NAV Drone app and regional wildfire agency websites provide real-time updates on restricted airspace.
