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As the summer sun beckons us outdoors, drone enthusiasts everywhere are ready to take to the skies, capturing breathtaking views and enjoying the thrill of flight. But with this excitement comes the responsibility to ensure that our aerial actions are both safe and legal. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or a newcomer eager to explore the world from above, here are 5 summer drone safety tips that are essential to remember.
1. Keep an eye on the temperature.
Rising temps mean many things both for you and your aircraft. From the electronics and sensors to batteries and props, all of the components on your drone have to work harder when the air heats up. Some video transmitters will stop working when overheated and batteries are also at risk of suffering permanent damage if their temperatures get too high. So, keep your flight times short and concise. Plan for frequent breaks and cool down times between sorties. Be careful of overheated batteries or motors when handling the aircraft. And never leave your drone or batteries in a hot car.
2. Be wary of moisture.
Ever noticed how your glasses might fog up when you leave air conditioning to go outside in the summer? That’s about how it works with any other kind of closed space… including camera lenses and internal equipment. Give your aircraft time to adjust to temperature changes to avoid moisture condensation and take note of humidity levels to determine when is good to fly.
3. Stand out and away from crowds and events.
Everyone wants to get outside to enjoy the nice weather and, most of the time, the crowds are also right where you want to be! Not only are they potentially in the way of your flight path, but they also might be interested in what you are doing. Remember that you are always responsible for the safe handling and flight of your drone. Understand your drone’s flight path, speed, battery drain, etc. and keep distractions to a minimum. Follow all FAA Guidelines for Operations Over People and be sure to always keep safety as the top priority.
4. Your safety is key.
What is more important than the drone? The operator, of course! Make sure to take care of yourself when out flying in the heat. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and be sure to wear appropriate gear (hats and moisture-wicking clothes are a must). Always keep a safety kit with your gear and be sure to add in sunscreen, bug spray, and ice packs to help stay comfortable during the summer months. While sunglasses are important for eye safety, make sure that they never impede your ability to keep an eye on your aircraft or have a clear view of your controller screen.
5. Don’t skimp on filters.
A good tool to have year-round, but especially during the summer when there is more time in the day to take advantage of the sunlight, neutral density (ND) filters can help capture the clearest shot or help deliver on the artistic effect you are hoping for. For those extra sunny days, be sure to use an ND16 or higher or consider a polarizing filter. Since manufacturers can vary – be sure to test out your different filters before committing to a shot! The goal is to have the clearest filter for your drone, so you can have the clearest picture from your drone.
By following these 5 summer drone safety tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your warm weather adventures to the fullest. Keeping an eye on temperature, being mindful of moisture, steering clear of crowds, prioritizing personal safety, and using the right filters are all critical to ensure your flights are smooth and trouble-free. So, gear up, stay safe, and let your drone soar to new heights this summer!
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