Effective usage of unmanned aerial vehicle technology in emergency operations in Canada

Abstract

The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology is increasing globally and if applied in the field of Public Safety (PS), could prove useful in providing solutions to challenges in emergency operations. The purpose of this research is to identify and analyze the underpinning regulatory framework that impacts effective usage of UAV technology in the PS domain. The research includes a study of governance arrangements including current Canadian Aviation Regulations, Emergency Management Act, Canadian Criminal Code and their underpinning legislation and policies in order to assess and interpret their impacts on the use of UAVs in PS agencies. It is informed by experiences and lessons learnt by these agencies.The knowledge gained can be extended to PS agencies who are contemplating the use of UAV technology in their services in order to reduce risk. UAV is of great interest as one of the disruptive technologies that is revolutionizing the way emergency operations are carried out and with this hope that useful solutions or recommendations can be made.