Countries worldwide with shark-populated waters are utilizing drones to monitor shark activity near public beaches. However, officials in Nova Scotia have indicated no immediate plans to implement this technology. Paul D’Eon, the longstanding director of the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service, acknowledged the use of drones by lifeguards in other countries but stated that they are not currently considering adopting drones.
The Department of Natural Resources, responsible for overseeing the province’s public beaches, did not confirm any intentions to invest in aerial shark surveillance. The lifeguard service in Nova Scotia currently monitors 24 public beaches for eight hours a day, seven days a week during the summer season when great white sharks migrate into the province’s warm waters.
D’Eon, with over five decades of experience in beach safety, mentioned that while there have been increased shark sightings, there have been no shark attacks during his tenure. Previously, beach closures due to shark sightings were infrequent, occurring only every few years. Now, approximately two beach closures occur annually.
Although the lifeguard service continuously evaluates safety measures, D’Eon did not recommend the province invest in drones at present. He emphasized that if circumstances change, they would reconsider the use of drones. In contrast, other regions like New South Wales in Australia and New York State have integrated drone technology for shark monitoring, with New South Wales even incorporating artificial intelligence into their shark detection efforts.
Shark sightings at Martinique Beach prompted the implementation of a two-hour beach closure protocol this year. Beachgoers at Martinique expressed interest in having lifeguard-operated drones for added safety. Despite some suggestions for drone implementation, D’Eon advised beachgoers to prioritize safety measures such as avoiding swimming during certain times and near specific wildlife.
As the discussion around drone surveillance for shark detection continues globally, Nova Scotia remains vigilant in its beach safety practices, relying on experienced lifeguards and traditional monitoring methods to ensure public safety.