Kelowna RCMP launching drone pilot program next week

The Kelowna RCMP is going to start testing drones for police work next week.

Police are going to do some test flights over the course of a week starting Nov. 17, with a focus on the downtown core, according to a press release from police.

The goal is to use them to improve risk assessment during dangerous incidents before officers get on the scene, reduce response times and help police find suspects, victims and people of interest.

Police would also try using drones to “enhance real-time situational awareness for frontline officers.”

The RCMP is going to assess how effective drones are at helping officers and try to figure out any risks, including privacy concerns.

“By utilizing drones in the field, we will be able to assess routine calls for service, mitigate high-risk incidents, provide monitoring of large gatherings in regards to public safety and assist in search and rescue files,” RCMP Insp. Jason Charney said in the release. “It will evaluate the feasibility of drone-assisted policing in Kelowna, with a focus on officer safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness. The results will inform potential long-term implementation, optimizing police resources and enhancing community safety.”

Kelowna RCMP will be using the DJI Matrice 300. The drones sell for $10,000 online and have a 55-minute maximum flight time.

BC RCMP already use drones to help with car crash investigations and more. The Vancouver Police Department, Alberta RCMP, Red Deer RCMP and the Edmonton Police Service already use drones as well.

The RCMP has “key performance indicators” that will help them evaluate how effective drones are during the pilot project.

The RCMP said it is taking privacy concerns seriously and will make sure the drone flights don’t violate anyone’s rights.

Drone flights are piloted by officers who are aware of the regulations for drones under Transport Canada Special Flights Operations Certificates.