The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating illegal drone use in downtown Winnipeg.
The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating illegal drone use in downtown Winnipeg.
The Winnipeg Police Service has issued a statement to the public as a reminder of its rules related to drone use in areas of crowds and festivals.
According to its report following Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche on Sunday, April 21, Police say multiple drones were observed flying overhead in the downtown area.
Operators of the drones were tracked down and were disciplined for their behaviour. Police are reminding folks that private drone use is prohibited over crowds and perpetrators will face serious discipline if caught in the act.
“The operators of these drones were located, identified and are being investigated,” the police report stated. “As a reminder, private drone use is prohibited over crowds, and operators could face serious penalties.”
Rules pertaining to drone use are to be regularly reviewed as violations can result in extremely stiff penalties on top of legal consequences and monetary damages.
The main risk related to drone usage over crowds is that of the protection of those gathered below. Public safety is the largest concern, as malfunction could lead to serious injury to those at the Whiteout Street Parties. Secondary risk is that of interference with local helicopter patrol or authorized aircraft in the area.
Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs featured a flyby of two CF-18 Hornet Royal Canadian Armed Forces jets just prior to puck drop.
Game 2 will get underway from Canada Life Centre at 8:45 PM central time on Tuesday night. The Jets currently own a 1-0 series lead over Central Division rival Colorado.
Police are advising drone operators dust off their copy of Transport Canada's rules and regulations for drone safety and legality.