A disaster zone is no place for drones to be flying.
That’s the reminder that went out from Abbotsford Police Department Friday morning, as efforts to save animals and property continues in the Sumas area.
“We are stressing to the public again that drones are not allowed in the Sumas Prairie area,” police said on their social media. “There is a lot of air traffic in the area to continually conduct aerial assessments and to assist the farmers. Drones impact aircraft from performing their duties and put them at significant risk.”
Drone operators have been flying over many of the areas that are experiencing landslides and flooding, offering the public a unique view of the damage from above. However, first responders, media and private companies have been flying over taking images as well.
The police department also shared some recent aerials of the Sumas area for those wanting to have a look.
Shortly after they sent out the no drone message, an unauthorized helicopter landed on a dike in the area.
“We need to work together to help our farmers and homeowners,” the police department said. “For example, a helicopter just landed on the dike to view the destruction. This type of activity is dangerous and impacting the flood repairs actively underway.”
They added that Transport Canada has issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM), with an order restricting all aircraft and drones from flying lower than 1000ft between the Abbotsford Airport and the Chilliwack Airport.
@CHWKcommunity
jessica.peters@hopestandard.com
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