Key Takeaways:
- Preparation for Hurricane Dorian: DJI, a leader in civilian drone technology, calls on authorized drone users in the Southeast U.S. to ready their equipment and procedures in advance of Hurricane Dorian.
- Guidelines for Drone Use: The company highlights the importance of following FAA regulations, advising other drone owners to avoid flying in affected areas during rescue and recovery operations.
- Role of Drones in Emergencies: Drones have emerged as essential tools for first responders during natural disasters, providing real-time aerial assessments and enhancing emergency response efforts.
DJI’s Call to Action: Prepare for Hurricane Dorian
As Hurricane Dorian barrels toward the southeastern United States, DJI, renowned for its advancements in drone technology and aerial imaging, is urging authorized drone operators to prepare their devices and operational protocols for the anticipated storm. With the acute expectation of severe weather conditions, DJI emphasizes the need for readiness among those authorized to use drones for rescue and recovery efforts.
Mario Rebello, DJI’s Vice President and North America Regional Manager, expressed the company’s commitment to enabling first responders to effectively utilize drones in emergencies. “First responders and utility companies today rely on drones to help people during emergencies, and DJI expects our products will play a critical – even lifesaving – role in responding to this looming disaster,” Rebello stated. His message underscores the essential nature of drones in times of crisis, which can help ensure safety and efficient recovery operations in the aftermath of a hurricane.
The Role of Drones in Disaster Response
Since their widespread adoption during Hurricane Harvey’s aftermath in 2017, drones have become indispensable assets for assessing damage and guiding recovery efforts. As demonstrated in North Carolina during Hurricane Florence, drone technology rapidly facilitates aerial inspections, allowing responders to assess and prioritize needs effectively. Their unique ability to reach hard-to-access areas provides an unparalleled advantage in emergency situations.
Hurricane Dorian is projected to make landfall in central Florida on the morning of September 2, and following its passage, DJI expects drones to play a pivotal role in various domains—ranging from search and rescue to infrastructure assessments. Public safety agencies, utility operators, and media participants with FAA authorization are encouraged to make preparations that will allow them to operate drones safely in the challenging post-storm environment.
Important Safety Guidelines
In light of the impending storm, DJI is particularly concerned about the safety of airspace around affected areas. The company cautions that unauthorized drone operators should abide by FAA recommendations and refrain from flying during recovery periods. The airspace is likely to be congested with aircraft engaged in emergency operations, and interference by unauthorized drones poses significant risks.
DJI has also taken steps to ensure effective operations during this emergency. The company has lifted geofencing restrictions for Florida Power & Light Company drones, which are crucial for restoration efforts impacting over 10 million Floridians. DJI is collaborating with other utility providers and emergency management agencies to further facilitate drone usage for emergency responders.
Preparing Your Equipment
Drone operators, particularly those intending to assist in recovery operations, are urged to ensure their equipment is fully prepared. This includes updating firmware for drones, batteries, and remote controllers as well as charging all batteries beforehand. DJI provides the necessary downloads and resources on their website to facilitate this process.
For those requiring access to geofenced areas, DJI reminds operators to apply for unlocks promptly, as these requests necessitate an internet connection for approval. Public safety agencies within DJI’s Qualified Entities Program are already granted access, while other agencies and authorized private operators can begin the application process to unlock geofencing via DJI’s dedicated portal.
FAA and Emergency Drone Operations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recognizes the importance of drones during emergencies and permits their use through a Special Governmental Interest (SGI) process. Applicants with the appropriate FAA certifications can apply for waivers that allow for flights following natural disasters. Additional information about obtaining these waivers can be found on the FAA’s website.
DJI urges drone owners without FAA authorization to refrain from flying in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. With the airspace likely to be chaotic and monitored closely, unauthorized operations can lead to fines exceeding $20,000 for non-compliance.
Stay Connected with DJI
For additional resources, including photos and videos illustrating the application of DJI drones in search and rescue operations, interested individuals are encouraged to visit DJI’s official media links. By working together and remaining vigilant, operators can optimize the impact of drone technology in critical times while ensuring the safety and efficiency of recovery efforts.
