Police urge drone operators to be safe and aware of the rules surrounding the use of unmanned aircraft – known as drones – particularly those that may restrict flying where emergency operations are under way.
“With severe weather continuing to impact the state, emergency services are prepared and resourced to assist anyone in danger in floodwaters, with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter ready for aerial responses, and SES aircraft mapping flood affected areas,” said Assistant commissioner Jonathan Higgins.
“Police have received reports of personal drones being flown in areas that have been impacted by intense rain and flooding over the past couple of days.”
Drones cannot be operated in a way that creates a hazard to another aircraft, person or property.
“I urge anyone considering flying a drone in the weather affected area, to stay well clear of floodwaters – if the operator becomes stranded or in danger and requires assistance, that’s going to divert emergency responders from the flood emergency.”
Drone operators must be aware of the rules surrounding the use of unmanned aircraft, particularly those that restrict flying where emergency operations are under way.
“In response to the severe weather incident, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter may be dispatched at any time to rescue people in danger in floodwaters.
“Tasmania State Emergency Services are also using aircraft to map flood affected areas.
“Aerial rescues and flood mapping require aircraft to fly at low altitude – a task made more difficult with the added risk of a drone. Essentially, if a personal drone is flying, rescue and emergency services aircraft can’t.”
Unless approved, drones also must not fly within 5.5km of an aerodrome or helicopter landing site. During emergency operations, many landing sites are temporary and negligent drone operators run the risk of breaching this requirement. If a drone pilot becomes aware of aircraft operating, they should immediately stop flying.
Recreational drone pilots should consult the CASA “Can I fly there?” app but be aware that it may not display temporary helicopter landing sites. The CASA website contains guides to the rules and links to associated legislation:
https://www.casa.gov.au/drones
