DNR asks that drones stay grounded around wildfires
We’re in the middle of wildfire season in Washington, which has grown in recent years due to climate change.
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources provides the most up-to-date information on active wildfires in our state through its Wildfire Intel Dashboard.
DNR made a request in early July for help addressing a problem impacting its aviation firefighting operations. Local governments, fire districts and other entities — both governmental and non-governmental — are launching drones in areas where wildfires are occurring, and where firefighters are combating them.
Drones in the airspace makes it dangerous for air crews, firefighters and the public, as firefighting aircraft can’t operate in the same airspace where drones are flying.
As the Forest Service has pointed out, “If you fly, we can’t.”
In early July, firefighters were unable to launch aircraft in Snohomish County due to an unknown drone flying in the area.
Follow the DNR’s Wildfire update account on Twitter for the latest information.
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Whether your home is in a suburban, city or rural area, you need to be aware of wildfire danger during the dry season. You can learn more about wildfires, and your homeowners insurance, on our site.
