Kimberley Search and Rescue (KSAR) urges drone pilots to keep their craft away from operations after a ski-hill rescue was interrupted on Monday.
“We were tasked by the RCMP to help four people who became misdirected on the ski hill and ended up on Teck property,” said Peter Reid, KSAR Level 2 Search Manager.
“We were in the process of doing that rescue when we heard a done overhead.”
Reid says drones can cause major issues for SAR crews.
“Once you get any kind of uncontrolled aircraft in the area, we are unable to fly our own. So the fact that there was a drone in the area prevented us from using a helicopter and we were forced to use a ground effort,” said Reid.
“When we run an operation, we make sure the airspace is clear and that we control that area.”
According to Transport Canada, unauthorized civilian drones cannot be used near first responders, including SAR crews.
Reid says the rescue operation went smoothly otherwise.
“These individuals did the right thing: they stopped, called for help and waited for help to arrive,” said Reid.
“When people are recreating and if they make a mistake, we encourage them to stop and wait for help.”
You can find more tips on how to stay safe in the backcountry here.
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