Western Power Distribution teams up with Civil Aviation Authority to warn Nottinghamshire users of drone flights

Nottinghamshire's largest electricity operator has issued a safety warning to drone users, Benjamin Lynch writes.

Western Power Distribution are asking drone users to exercise caution when operating their drones near power lines.

WPD have teamed up the the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to make sure drone users keep in sight every flight, so their machines do not cause damage to power lines.

The operators are responsible for delivering electricity to approximately 7.9 million customers in the UK, so are keen for people to avoid incidents.

Engineers from WPD responded to over 370 incidents last year as a result of the public coming in to contact with power lines in some form or another.

WPD and CAA have prepared some important safety tips for flying drones:

1. Always keep your drone in sight so that you can see and avoid things while flying.

2. Stay below 400ft (120m) to comply with the dronecode. Stay well away from airports and other aircraft.

3. Look out for electricity substations and overhead power lines. Make sure you always fly more than 50 metres from these, as well as from people and properties.

4. Read and follow the drone manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the safety of your drone and people around you.

5. If a drone enters a substation or comes into contact with power lines, do not attempt to retrieve it. Call WPD immediately on 105, our emergency number.

6. Visit www.dronesafe.uk/drone-code for more information on drone safety.

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