The New West Police Department (NWPD) announced the start of a new drone program and has outlined several reasons and use cases for drones in the field.
Literally called the NWPD Drone Program, the department introduced it on Wednesday morning in a media release.
According to NWPD, only Transport Canada-certified officers will operate the drones in cases when an aerial view could improve safety or assist an investigation.
NWPD provided several examples of incidents that drones might be used for, such as missing people, documenting crime scenes, photographing serious collisions, assessing insecure buildings, and supporting officers during high-risk incidents.
“They may also be used during major events or emergencies to help keep the public safe. The real-time aerial view will help officers make informed decisions quickly, which can save lives.”
NWPD says that police departments in the region are already using drones to keep people safe and that it is “proud” to bring the capability to New West.
“The real-time aerial view will help our officers in situations where every second counts,” said NWPD Sergeant Andrew Leaver.
The department is also addressing privacy concerns, as the release states that the use of the drones will be “purposeful” and tied to specific incidents. They will also be used in accordance with federal law and provincial privacy requirements.
Drone flights will also be recorded, with videos being retained when they have “investigative or training value.”
Other departments that use drones include the Vancouver Police Department. The VPD refers to drones as Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems, to support pubic safffety and to aid in investigations.
The Delta and Abbotsford police departments also use drones.