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Edith Lin

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.

Tang added that the department was also testing a new mini thermal imaging camera, which is lighter and more portable, to enhance firefighters’ visibility in smoke-filled environments and reduce their operational strain.
Separately, Tang provided an update on a department pilot scheme to install a smart fire alarm system in 10 old buildings of up to six storeys.
He said the scheme had been in place for two months and had helped improve firefighters’ response to blazes.
According to Tang, it takes only two to three weeks to install the Internet of Things-enabled fire detection system, at a cost of about HK$200,000 (US$25,641).
The new system, he said, was cost-effective compared with traditional fire alarm systems equipped with hosepipe reels, which could take one to two years to install and cost around HK$600,000.
The department is expected to complete the first phase of the scheme’s evaluation in the second quarter, with hopes of extending the initiative to other eligible buildings across the city.
In October, the department said it aimed to install the smart system in 3,600 old buildings that had yet to be fitted with adequate firefighting facilities.


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Hong Kong to test firefighting drones in pilot scheme

Drones being used to inspect the buildings at Wang Fuk Court in the aftermath of the deadly Tai Po blaze. Authorities will test how this technology can be used in a firefighting capacity. Photo: Eugene Lee

Secretary for Security Chris Tang says trials will determine whether drone technology is ready for firefighting operations. Photo: Karma Lo

Hong Kong authorities start 2-month inspection operation on building fire safety

The fire alarm system at Tung Lee Mansion in Sai Wan, which was installed by the same contractor in charge of maintenance at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Photo: Dickson Lee

The catastrophic fire at Wang Fuk Court killed 168 people and displaced nearly 5,000 residents in November last year. Photo: Sam Tsang

Safety system overhaul needed to prevent repeat of deadly Hong Kong fire

Workers assess the damage in the aftermath of the deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on December 11. Photo: Jelly Tse

‘No leniency’: Hong Kong minister vows tougher building safety laws after Tai Po fire

The catastrophic 43-hour blaze at Wang Fuk Court, which broke out on November 26, claimed at least 161 lives and left nearly 5,000 residents displaced. Photo: Sam Tsang

Development chief Bernadette Linn says that there will be no leniency for the construction sector. Photo: Edmond So

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Authorities turn to new technology as part of efforts to enhance fire safety following the deadly Tai Po blaze


Authorities turn to new technology as part of efforts to enhance fire safety following the deadly Tai Po blaze.


Hong Kong to test firefighting drones in pilot scheme

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Authorities turn to new technology as part of efforts to enhance fire safety following the deadly Tai Po blaze

Authorities turn to new technology as part of efforts to enhance fire safety following the deadly Tai Po blaze