Hong Kong to test firefighting drones in pilot scheme
Authorities turn to new technology as part of efforts to enhance fire safety following the deadly Tai Po blaze
Hong Kong authorities will launch a pilot scheme to test firefighting drones, with the aim of deploying the equipment in operations once the technology has matured, the security minister has said.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung made the remarks on Wednesday while answering lawmakers’ questions on fire safety in the Legislative Council, following the Tai Po blaze in November that claimed 168 lives.
Tang said drones in Hong Kong were used only to analyse fire scenes, while mainland China had not yet officially deployed them for firefighting, pending further technological development.
“Mainland China has a pilot scheme [on firefighting drones]. With reference to mainland experience, we will introduce a pilot scheme and see if it can be applied in Hong Kong,” he said in response to one of the inquiries.
Tang later supplemented his remarks in a written reply to another inquiry, noting that firefighting drones were still in the experimental stage on the mainland and in Hong Kong and were not yet suitable for use at real fire scenes.
He said the Fire Services Department was maintaining close contact with mainland authorities and drone manufacturers, while also testing locally produced models.
“It is hoped that once the technology has matured and been proven safe and feasible, Hong Kong will be among the first to deploy drones for firefighting operations,” he said.