The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture is reminding the public to refrain from operating drones in the vicinity of forest fires. The presence of drones near active fire zones poses a significant safety risk to firefighting efforts, particularly to the operations of waterbombers and other aerial firefighting equipment.

Waterbombers play a critical role in controlling and extinguishing forest fires, and their pilots need to operate in a clear and unobstructed airspace. Unauthorized drone activity can interfere with these operations, potentially causing delays in firefighting efforts and putting the lives of firefighters and pilots at risk.

Public cooperation is essential in ensuring that forest fires are managed effectively and safely. All drone operators and the general public are asked to respect the dedicated efforts of our province’s firefighting personnel.

Unauthorized drone use can result in fines and legal action.

For information about flying your drone safely and legally please visit the Transport Canada website here.

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