Why drones can be deadly during fires

Do you want to become a great battle drone pilot? Master the art of doing a 360-degree rollover. In some drones, it’s as easy as pressing the button. However, …

Do you want to become a great battle drone pilot? Master the art of doing a 360-degree rollover. In some drones, it’s as easy as pressing the button. However, the hard part is timing it to avoid an oncoming attack.

by: Paige Weeks

Posted: Apr 22, 2022 / 08:06 AM MDT

Updated: Apr 22, 2022 / 08:06 AM MDT

COLORADO SPRINGS — Local first responders are reminding residents about the consequences of flying drones during fires.

The reminder comes after the United States Forest Service (USFS) of Pike and San Isabel said two drones were seen flying over the Rampart Fire near Woodland Park.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), drones can cause major problems as they hinder first responders’ ability to fight wildfires. In fact, even a small drone could become deadly if it collides with an authorized aircraft.

Drones also prolong the amount of time it takes to fight a fire. If an unauthorized drone is detected, all authorized aircraft must land due to safety issues.

A drone over a wildfire is risking the pilot and the firefighters lives. Please keep your drones away from wildfires. Risking peoples lives is not worth the view. Drones and wildfires do not mix. #IfYouFlyWeCant
USFS Pike and San Isabel

“…in many cases, wildfires become larger when aircraft are not able to drop fire retardant, water, monitor wildfires from above, or provide tactical information to firefighters,” NIFC explains. “Homes and other values at risk could burn needlessly, firefighters or others could be injured, or worst of all, a fatal accident could occur.”

In addition, per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 43 CFR 9212.1(f), it is illegal to resist or interfere with the efforts of firefighter(s) to extinguish a fire.

“Doing so can result in a significant fine and/or a mandatory court appearance,” NIFC explains. “So, be smart and just don’t fly your drone anywhere near a wildfire. No amount of video or photos are worth the consequences.”