Unauthorized use of drones near wildfires prohibited in Minnesota

ALEXANDRIA — Following a drier-than-average winter, reports of wildfire activity are steadily climbing throughout Minnesota this spring.

On average, firefighters respond to more than 500 wildfires between April and May, often using aircraft to slow down flames with water or fire retardant.

The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center reminds all Minnesotans that the unauthorized use of drones within the vicinity of a wildfire is prohibited.

“Drones are distractions to firefighters working in a hectic wildfire environment,” Leanne Langeberg, the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, said in a press release. “Sending a drone up for a quick view of a wildfire may seem harmless to an operator, but it is a preventable safety hazard for firefighters.”

Wildfires produce dangerous conditions. The smoke-filled air can significantly limit visibility for all involved, especially for the pilots flying above the treetops to deliver water or fire retardant.

Despite the known concerns, drones continue showing up unannounced on Minnesota wildfires.

Last spring, firefighters responding to a wildfire near the Split Rock Light House along the North Shore were forced to ground a helicopter when a drone was spotted hovering near the fire.

Minnesota law prohibits interfering with a firefighter in their official duties, including unauthorized drones that delay or restrict responding aircraft.

When a drone is spotted near a wildfire, all responding aircraft are directed to land or return to the airport until the airspace is clear. The delay wastes valuable time that could be used to slow down a rapidly moving wildfire.

The dilemma of drones impairing firefighting efforts is a nationwide concern. Langeberg said more than 30 drone incursions were reported on wildfires throughout the United States last year.

More recently, a drone collided with a Canadian CL-415 water-scooping airplane during the height of the Los Angeles wildfires in early January. The aircraft sustained notable damage to one of the wings.

After the airplane landed safely, it was left grounded until the wing was repaired.

“We are incredibly grateful and relieved the pilot walked away from this preventable drone incident,” Langeberg said. “Drone encounters like this threatened the lives of everyone responding to the fire and nearby.”

Aircraft can be called in to support a wildfire at any time from the moment it starts until it is out cold.

For the safety of all firefighters, keep drones away from wildfires.