What role can unmanned aerial vehicles play in emergency response in the Arctic: A case study from Canada

Abstract

This paper examines search and rescue and backcountry medical response constraints in the Canadian Arctic and potential for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to aid in response and preparedness. Semi-structured interviews (n = 18) were conducted with search and rescue responders, Elders, and emergency management officials to collect data on current emergency response and potential for UAV use. UAV test flights (n = 17) were undertaken with community members. We analyzed five years of weather data to examine UAV flight suitability. Numerous challenges face Arctic search and rescue and backcountry emergency response. Changing social and environmental conditions were described as increasing vulnerability to backcountry emergencies. Responders desired additional first aid and emergency training. Legal and weather restrictions were found to limit where, when and who could fly UAVs. UAVs were demonstrated to have potential benefits for hazard monitoring but not for SAR or medical response due to legal restrictions, weather margins, and local capacity. We find that communities are ill-prepared for ongoing SAR demands, let alone a larger disaster. There are numerous limitations to the use of consumer UAVs by Arctic communities. Prevention of backcountry medical emergencies, building resilience to disasters, and first responder training should be prioritized over introducing UAVs to the response system.

Collaborative approaches to wellness and health equity in the Circumpolar North: Introduction to the Special Issue

“…From the perspectives and evidence shared in this special issue, and from other work that emerged from the conference [17,18,[22][23][24][25], it is clear that the gritty work of upending the disparate health consequences of colonization requires forging a path built on Indigenous selfdetermination, human rights, and health equity. Although this work is a shared responsibility, communities must be the primary benefactors of collective action to improve health.…”

“…Increasingly, public health practitioners and clinicians in the Circumpolar North are finding innovative ways to incorporate new technologies into clinical care [16], emergency response [17], and climate change adaptation strategies [18]. In part, this is an effort to build on the assets and strengths of communities, while also attempting to deal with perennial challenges in service delivery across a large geographic area, such as high costs [19].…”

An integrative climate change vulnerability index for Arctic aviation and marine transportation

“…Air and marine transportation systems play invaluable roles in the health, wellbeing, and economic vitality of the Canadian Arctic 25–28 . These transportation systems are vulnerable to climate change due to persistent infrastructure inequities between the Canadian North and southern Canada 9 , constrained emergency response capacities 29 , and increasing biophysical changes driven by climate change. Potential impacts are concerning and underpin the need for continued and enhanced investment in adaptation.…”

“…Investments are specifically needed in the Arctic Archipelago, Hudson Bay, and Inuvialuit regions where vulnerability is projected to increase the most. Additionally, small ports have potential to reduce risks, especially in Inuvialuit 29 . Development of new ports should account for sea level decreases or rise.…”

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