D’Amico Encourages Residents to Use Drones Safely

CHICAGO –State Rep. John D’Amico, D-Chicago, is encouraging residents who received a drone during the holiday season, as well as long-time owners of drones, to stay current on federal, state and municipal drone safety guidelines. 

“While drones are fun to fly, they can also be dangerous,” D’Amico said. “I urge residents to become familiar with all safety guidelines before they operate their drones or give them to their children.”

D’Amico advises residents to meet the following guidelines to comply with safety regulations, including registering your drone, only purchasing drones weighing less than 55 pounds, and never flying near or over public events, stadiums, airports and emergency response efforts.

Recreational users of drones can find a list of Illinois safety regulations for unmanned aircraft systems at http://www.idot.illinois.gov/transportation-system/safety/aviation-safety/uas.

 “Owning a drone can be exciting, but it also entails new responsibilities,” D’Amico said. “We must ensure that our community enjoys the technology advances drones provide while staying safe at the same time.”