2 9 t h A n n u a l F i r e D e p a r t m e n t I n f o r m a t i o n C o n f e r e n c e
FDIC ATLANTIC
Embedded Files
2026 REGISTRATION OPEN
CLASSROOM WORKShOP
CLASSROOM WORKShOP
"Are Drones a Tool for You to Consider?"
"Are Drones a Tool for You to Consider?"
Mark Walker
Mark Walker
Sunday Afternoon 13:00 - 14:30
Synopsis
This session will cover a Drone program overview as it is used in Halifax Fire, but the technologies and procedures can be used by any fire service. What are the regulations that need to be followed and how to ensure safe operation during flights? What are some of the current drone technologies available if you are considering a program for your fire service? How can drones support operational command functions such as open water/Ice rescue, wildfires, hazmat incidents, and larger EMO events? We will also look at how to utilize streaming platforms to share with command and supporting agencies to ensure all involved can see the events as they unfold.
Bio
Mark Walker is currently a Captain of Operations with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency with a combined Fire service of 31 years, 27 years as career and 17 of those as Captain of Operations. Assigned to Halifax Fire Station 12 since 2016 (Hazmat Tech/Drone pilots). First entered the Drone world in 2016 in a supporting role as a station officer. In 2019 obtained a Transport Canada Advance Pilot certification and became Drone Lead with Halifax Fire in 2025.
Being the Drone Lead I currently work directly with District Chief’s on all drone related matters for the department. It continues to be an ongoing learning experience with meeting Transport Canada’s regulatory requirements, continued training, selection of drone and payloads are just to name a few challenges I have faced as Drone Lead.
As Drone lead our team has maintained working relationships with police agencies, fire departments, local Air Traffic Control towers, ground search and rescue, HUSAR TASK Force 5 as well as numerous vendors for hardware and software needs.
I have witnessed the drone usage in the public safety environment continuously evolve and the advancement in the last few years is remarkable and the future tech in this industry seems unlimited.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse