Flying Near a Wildfire

[mdurbanek]

TFR's sometimes take awhile to be activated, but that doesn't mean you should fly in that situation. The Thomas Fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties started on the afternoon of December 4th. I remember being surprised that there was no TFR on the morning of the 6th.

When the TFR appeared later that day, it covered an immense area. As the fire spread (eventually to 280,000 acres) it covered practically all of both counties and was scheduled to end February 2. And although the fire was fully contained by then, they held to the February date to facilitate mop-up operations and power pole/power line repair and replacement.

So I'd be interested to know if your TFR has expanded by now. And also the expected duration.

 

[R.Perry]

You asked for opinions, and opinions were given in a reasonable and professional manner. You seem to be intent on justifying flying somewhere where you shouldn't. That is'nt people preaching at you, that is you not wanting to listen to common sense.
I got my pilots license in 1978, I have flown for CDF and also crop dusting, booth are low altitude operations so I'm very aware of the dangers. What you don't seem to realize is drones can be very difficult to see especially when a pilot isn't looking for them and have their attention focused on the job at hand.
I can fully understand the desire to photograph a wild fire, but please understand you would be putting people at risk even though you don't believe so.
If you are so sure your desired flight is safe, find the fire chief or captain and ask him if you can fly in the area, and then go by what he tells you.

 

[LUIS MARTINEZ]

Drone nearly crashes into helicopter fighting fire | East Idaho News

 

[BigAl07]

Drone nearly crashes into helicopter fighting fire | East Idaho News

Yep that's another one. Here's to hoping they catch the operator and have a word of prayer with him/her.

 

[R.Perry]

Just an update, drones are now being used in the Mariposa fire, under the strict control of CDF, and was told they have been a tremendous help. If someone wants to work with them they need to be licensed and have proof of insurance 3 mil minimum from my understanding. This is second had information from our local fire chief.

I think what they are doing is allowing drones to fly into areas already burnt to inspect structures. The smoke in this area is terrible right now so be warned. It is so bad my wife and I are taking off for a few days to get away from it.