Drone security is a focal subject throughout the globe for each drone operators and the general public. And in response to “numerous reports about dangerous counterfeit or fake drones, as well as fires and explosions started by faulty or poorly maintained lithium drone batteries and chargers,” within the UK, Electrical Safety First – a nonprofit group designed to advertise electrical security and hearth prevention – has launched a drone shopping for, charging and storage security useful resource for drone pilots.
Counterfeit drones have been reported to catch hearth – and are a rising drawback within the drone neighborhood, as extra consumers seek for bargains on-line. Forums on drone producer web sites, eBay, and different pilot neighborhood websites abound with studies from drone operators who might uncover that the Phantom they acquired an awesome deal on wasn’t actual. Beyond the issue of fraudulent gross sales, faux drones could also be manufactured with out regards to security requirements, and might trigger critical points for pilots.
Martyn Allen, Head of the Electrotechnical Division at Electrical Safety First, says that whereas pilots perceive flight guidelines they want to consider security even whereas the drone is on the bottom. “DRONELIFE readers will no doubt be aware of the importance of safely operating a drone in the air. However, what’s less well understood is the danger that drones can pose elsewhere. For example, Lithium or ‘LiPo’ batteries can pose a fire risk thanks to their volatility, so they require proper storage and maintenance,” says Allen. “Meanwhile, counterfeit drones with poor manufacturing standards are permeating the market, resulting in a variety of risks. We hope this guide helps drone pilots take a more holistic view of safe and responsible drone use.”
The information offers some pre-purchase checks to make sure that the drone thought-about isn’t a counterfeit, together with checking logos and phone particulars to make it possible for the product is traceable. It additionally contains charging directions; storage recommendation; and pre-flight checks. Operators who need extra data – together with the quantity to name when reporting a counterfeit drone buy – can discover the whole information right here.