San Andreas – CAL FIRE Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit (TCU) and Calaveras County Office of Emergency Services (OES) would like to remind the public that flying unauthorized Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS or Drones) near a wildfire is against the law. These unauthorized flights pose serious risks to firefighter and public safety, as well as the effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations.
On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, emergency personnel responded to a vegetation fire near Warren Road and Highway 26 in Jenny Lind. While firefighting operations were underway a member of the community flew their UAS over the fire area, then posted the images to social media. This action not only poses a risk to the safety of personnel in the air and on the ground but also to the entire community.
If an unauthorized drone is detected flying over or near a wildfire, fire managers may have to ground all airtankers, helicopters, and other aerial firefighting aircraft until they can confirm that the UAS has left the area. This can cause wildfires to become larger, more costly, and potentially threaten lives, property, and valuable natural and cultural resources.
Both TCU and OES recognize the public’s interest in clear, concise, accurate and timely information dissemination. However, safety of all first responders and community members is the top priority.
The “If You Fly, We Can’t” safety awareness campaign is designed to keep drone pilots away from airspace used by firefighters. Additional information is available at www.nifc.gov/drones/index.html. For information on how you can prepare for wildfire visit: www.ReadyForWildfire.org.