Flying a drone near a wildfire creates a serious safety hazard for firefighters and stops the assistance of any firefighting aircraft, according to the Arkansas Forestry Commission.
With the first of two primary Arkansas wildfire seasons here (February-April), the forestry commission is preparing for an increase in wildfire frequency.
“When drones fly, we cannot use firefighting aircraft as a resource to stop wildfires,” state Forester Joe Fox said in a news release. “Firefighters and pilots could be injured, flames could overtake homes and other structures, or worst of all, a fatal accident could occur. We ask that drone operators stay away from wildfire emergencies for the safety of everyone involved.”
In January, wildland firefighters responded to a fire in Ashley County when it was reported that a drone was flying nearby. Drones can cause a serious or fatal accident if they collide with firefighting aircraft. Pilots have no way to detect drones other than by seeing them, a spokesman said.
If drones are reported near an Arkansas wildfire, firefighting aircraft will be grounded or sent to a different location immediately.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“This can result in wildfires becoming larger and leaves firefighters and dozer operators on the ground with no option to use aerial water drops from aircraft as a suppression tool. Aerial water drops are used to cool flames for faster control by firefighters and/or to provide direct protection of homes and other structures,” a spokesman said.
AFC Law Enforcement Officers will prosecute any violation against firefighting aircraft from drones or other threats. According to Arkansas Statute 5-54-102, it is unlawful for a person to “knowingly obstruct, impair, or hinder the performance of any governmental function.”
The mission of the AFC is to protect Arkansas’ forests, and those who enjoy them, from wildland fire and natural hazards while promoting rural and urban forest health, stewardship, development, and conservation for all generations of Arkansans.
To report a wildfire, call 1-800-468-8834. To report a prescribed burn, call 1-800-830-8015. For local wildfire conditions, visit arkfireinfo.org.