A drone has been spotted near bushfires near Poatina Road in the Central Highlands.
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Police have continually reminded people not to operate drones near bushfires because it can impact firefighting efforts.
“Firefighting operations rely heavily on the use of helicopters and other aircraft and any use of drones in the vicinity presents a risk to manned aviation,” police said.
“Water bombing aircraft need to fly at low altitudes, a task made more difficult with the added risk of a drone strike. Essentially, if you fly a drone they can’t fly at all.”
There are a number of rules surrounding the use of unmanned aircraft and any breach of the rules may result in charges being laid.
“Drones cannot be operated in a way that creates a hazard to another aircraft, person or property. Unless approved, drones also must not fly within 5.5km of an aerodrome or helicopter landing site,” police said.
“During emergency operations, many landing sites are temporary and negligent drone operators run the risk of breaching this requirement.”
Police advised drone pilots to immediately stop flying if they become aware of aircraft operating in the area.
For more information, visit the CASA website or download the Can I fly there? app.