Drone Safety

Your Home, Your Privacy, Your Insurance and Drones.
What you should know

Drone Safety

Drones, also referred to as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), are usually thought of as toys or hobbyist aircraft. However, they can also constitute a substantial risk to your family, home and privacy.
Even though most drones only weigh a few pounds, a crash can still cause significant damage to a person or property. Additionally, many drones are equipped with cameras and other technology that can violate your family’s privacy. Whether or not you own a drone, it’s important that you’re aware of regulations and safety tips regarding their use. 

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Federal Regulations 

Tips for Safe Drone Use

Even drones that are used only for recreation are legally considered aircraft, and must be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Here are the basic guidelines for registering recreational drones:

• Drones that weigh between 0.55 pounds and 55 pounds must be registered online.
• Once registered, the drone’s operator will receive a registration number that must be placed on all applicable drones.
• The registration is valid for three years. Failing to register a drone may result in regulatory and criminal penalties.

Since the FAA legally considers drones the equivalent of manned aircraft, any attempt to damage or destroy one can result in federal penalties. These include up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines. Even incidental damage could expose you and your family to federal penalties and expenses for any resulting damage.

If you’re concerned with a drone that’s operating in your area, call your local police department. 

You could be financially responsible for any damage a drone causes to a person or property. Here are some basic tips to safely operate a drone:

•  Check your local laws and ordinances to ensure that drones can be operated in your area.
• Make sure that the drone’s operator is comfortable with the controls, and that he or she is aware of all safety guidelines.
• Don’t fly the drone above 400 feet, and always remain below any surrounding obstacles.
• Keep the drone in sight at all times, and have an observer assist the operator if needed.
• Remain clear of all manned aircraft. The FAA requires all drones to stay at least 5 miles away from airports.
• Don’t operate the drone when it’s windy, or in other inclement weather.
• Don’t operate the drone under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Keep the drone away from all pedestrians, roads and open-air stadiums. ​

Drones & Privacy

Researchers have shown that drones equipped with smartphones can access data from an insecure computer network and other electronic devices. Since drones can access areas that a normal person couldn’t, such as a second story window or a fenced-in backyard, they could potentially access your family’s private information and violate your privacy. ​

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Though most homeowners policies cover damage caused by aircraft, others may exclude this coverage option. Contact us to check your home’s coverage, and for more drone safety information. 

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