Drones Grounded as Wildfire Risk Soars in Silver City

Fire Officials Urge Caution and Vigilance

In Silver City, New Mexico, the Gila National Forest is facing a very high risk of Wildfire, and with several recent fires around Silver City, including three on Boston Hill in just two days, fire officials are reportedly urging residents to remain vigilant and cautious to prevent a catastrophic wildfire.

Assistant Fire Chief Aaron Seavers of the Silver City Fire Department reported, “We had three fires around Boston Hill in the past 24 hours. It’s hard to say what caused those fires. However, the Police found a man who was asleep about 50 feet away from one of them. They told him to leave the area.”

Drones Pose Serious Risks to Firefighting Efforts

In addition to the recent fires, a June 1 fire on private property off Rosedale Road has sparked discussions about preventive measures and public actions during fire responses.

The Gila National Forest posted on Facebook, “Recently, there was a structure fire in Grant County, just outside of Silver City. During the incident, private drones were spotted flying above and around the fire. Although aerial support from the Forest Service was not requested for this incident, the presence of drones in the air would have blocked our ability to provide support.”

Maribeth Pecotte, Public Affairs Officer for the Gila National Forest, emphasized the importance of cooperation between wildland and urban agencies in fighting fires that threaten people and private property.

“If [private drone flights] were to occur on a fire such as last year’s Rico Fire, the outcome for Pinos Altos residences could have been very different, as that fire relied on aerial response to stop its forward progression toward houses,” she said.

Assistant Fire Chief Seavers added, “Drones can severely hamper our efforts to control wildfires. The Forest Service is a great resource for us, and they absolutely will not dispatch aircraft if there are drones in the area. We ask the public to please not fly drones near our fire scenes, for the safety of the Firefighters and the public.”

Serious Consequences for Drone Pilots

Flying drones around active fires can result in serious consequences for drone pilots. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reminds the public that “If you fly, firefighters can’t.” Interfering with firefighting aircraft is a federal crime, regardless of established restrictions, and violators can face penalties of up to 12 months in prison and fines up to $20,000.

High Fire Danger Levels and Call for Cooperation

The Gila National Forest is currently operating under a “very high” level of fire danger, just one step below the highest “extreme” level when the most serious fire restrictions are considered.

Gila National Forest Supervisor Camille Howes stated in a press release on June 14, “We appreciate the cooperation of all visitors in helping to keep our forest safe and enjoyable.”

Assistant Fire Chief Seavers emphasized the current risk, saying, “The Silver City area is at risk for a wildfire. We’ve had a few weeks of hot and dry weather. The winds are expected to be in the 20-miles-per-hour range all this coming week. Although there is some hope for rain later in the week, we are preparing for the worst. We’re asking the public to be diligent in keeping safe.”

DroneXL’s Take

The use of drones in wildfire situations can be both helpful and harmful. While drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can assist firefighters in locating hot spots and mapping the spread of fires, unauthorized drone flights by the public can seriously impede firefighting efforts. It is crucial for drone pilots to understand and respect the regulations surrounding wildfires and to prioritize the safety of firefighters and the public.

As the risk of wildfires continues to increase due to climate change and human activities, it is more important than ever for communities to work together to prevent and respond to these disasters. By following fire safety guidelines, respecting flight restrictions, and supporting the efforts of firefighters and forest service personnel, we can help protect our forests, homes, and lives from the devastating effects of wildfires.