Wildfire activity has greatly increased in Georgia this month, and the Georgia Forestry Commission has rangers on the ground and in the air working to control the fires. Drones are a serious hazard to pilots of fixed wing aircraft and helicopters, and the public is being asked to help make sure drones are grounded around wildfires.
“We encountered a safety incident involving a drone on a fire last night,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Chief of Protection, Frank Sorrells. “Wildfire operations often utilize low flying aircraft for fire detection, water drops, and safety information to firefighters on the ground. If a drone is detected in the area, we have to suspend air operations for aviation safety reasons,” Sorrells said.
As details of the recent incident are being investigated, Sorrells explained that grounding GFC aircraft interrupts operations, which may place higher risk on firefighters on the ground. It also has the potential to increase the threat to homes, business and other structures personnel are attempting to protect with aerial suppression resources.
Georgia’s deepening drought has contributed to a 123% increase in wildfire in October, compared to the state’s five year average. Due to the elevated risk, burn permits have been temporarily denied in many areas and everyone is being warned to exercise extreme caution with any outdoor use of fire, especially campfires.
In July, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a safety warning about the dangers of wildfire and drones, saying “If you fly, they can’t.” Endangering manned aircraft or people on the ground with an unmanned aircraft can make drone operators liable for a fine ranging from $1,000 to a maximum of $25,000, according to the FAA.
For more information, contact:
Wendy Burnett
478.751.3535
wburnett@gfc.state.ga.us
“Our top priority is always safety,” said Sorrells. “Please, keep your drone on the ground and let firefighters and aircraft do their jobs. And if you see someone flying a drone near a wildfire, notify GFC personnel who are there on the scene, or contact local law enforcement with as much information as possible,” he said.
Reports may also be filed with the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office, which can be located at: http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/.
For more information about fire safety and operations of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org.
Mon - Sun: 12:00 AM - 06:00 AM
