Private drones are interfering with BC Wildfire and Elk Valley Resources actioning a new fire start on Sparwood Ridge.
The District of Sparwood posted on social media that they are aware of the fire and asking residents to keep drones out of the area.
The operation of any aircraft not associated with fire suppression activities (including drones and unmanned aerial vehicles) near a wildfire is illegal. It also poses a serious threat to the safety of firefighting personnel, the post says.
The use of UAVs or drones near or on a wildfire is also considered to be “interference,” as defined in Section 56 of the provincial Wildfire Act. Operators are subject to a violation ticket fine of $1,150. If convicted, the operator could be fined up to $100,000 and/or face imprisonment of over a year.
“BC Wildfire are unable to action the fire with aerial support when drones are in the area. It puts everyone trying to fight the fire at risk,” Sparwood Mayor David Wilks said in a separate social media post.
He also said the fire appears to have been sparked by lightning.
