The Croatian Firefighters Association has issued a stern warning to the public against using drones to film active wildfires. The measure comes as a direct response to a recent incident near the settlement of Vrsin in Zadar County, where the presence of a drone led to a temporary halt in the operations of fire-fighting aircraft.
The association stresses that such behavior is extremely dangerous and endangers the lives of aircraft crews and firefighters operating on the ground.
A collision between a drone and an aircraft could cause severe damage to the aircraft, or even cause it to crash. If crews spot an unauthorised aircraft in the operational zone, they are required to immediately cease operations to ensure the safety of the crew. Such an interruption complicates the situation on the ground, as firefighting must be suspended while aircraft return to position or receive new flight clearance.
In addition to aerial operations, the work of fire-fighting aircraft is hindered by boats approaching the area where the aircraft refills with water from the sea or a lake. The Croatian Firefighters Association is therefore urging the public not to approach the fire site on foot or by vehicle to film or photograph the incident. Approaching the fire is not only disruptive to coordinated operations but also places individuals in direct danger from the rapidly spreading fire and smoke.
The Croatian Firefighters Association warns that any unauthorised filming of a fire will be reported to the police. Members of the public are urged to contact the fire brigade immediately by calling 193 if they spot a fire. The aim is to ensure the unimpeded operation of fire services and to protect the lives of all involved in the firefighting effort, as well as those of observers who approach the hazardous zone without authorisation.
