Countries worldwide that face shark presence are turning to drones for early shark detection near public beaches. However, Nova Scotia authorities have indicated no immediate plans to utilize this technology. Paul D’Eon, the longstanding director of the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service, noted that while other countries like Australia and the United States have incorporated drones for lifeguard operations, Nova Scotia has not actively pursued this measure. The Department of Natural Resources, responsible for overseeing the province’s beaches, has not confirmed any intentions to invest in aerial shark surveillance using drones.
Despite monitoring 24 public beaches around the province daily during the summer months, Nova Scotia has not experienced any shark attacks under D’Eon’s 52-year tenure. However, there has been a slight uptick in shark sightings, with beach closures due to shark fin sightings increasing to about two per year compared to a few years ago.
While the lifeguard service constantly evaluates safety protocols, D’Eon currently does not advocate for drone investments unless circumstances change significantly. In contrast, other regions like New South Wales in Australia have been using drones effectively to monitor beaches year-round, with plans to incorporate artificial intelligence for enhanced shark detection. Similarly, New York State and the New York City Police Department have invested in a fleet of shark-detection drones, with the state allocating additional funds for this technology.
Following a recent shark sighting at Martinique Beach, the existing protocol involves a two-hour beach closure. Beachgoers at Martinique expressed a desire for lifeguard-operated drones to enhance safety measures. Notably, Philip Skinder from the Pacific Lifesaving Club in Vancouver commended the efficiency and effectiveness of drone technology for ocean safety, emphasizing the importance of investing in such initiatives.
While some individuals, like Amber Beaver, feel apprehensive about entering the water due to recent shark sightings, others like Declan Byers and Skinder advocate for proactive measures to ensure beach safety. D’Eon advises caution, recommending avoiding swimming during dawn and dusk or near seals and active fishing areas to mitigate potential risks.
Overall, the discussion around drone technology for shark detection highlights varying perspectives on beach safety measures, with Nova Scotia currently opting to rely on existing protocols.
