Officials warn of unauthorized drone flights over ‘Aspen Acres’ fire

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- "Aspen Acres" fire officials are asking people to stop flying unauthorized drones over active fire zones.

In a press conference on Friday, Pueblo County Sheriff David Lucero said the sheriff's office had received reports of an unauthorized drone flying over the fire and recording footage. The sheriff said he is asking for help from residents in identifying the people responsible.

Lucero says the drones can stop firefighters from being able to do aerial operations and drop water onto the fire.

Lucero says it is a federal offense to fly unauthorized in those areas and can include fines or jail time.

Earlier this month, officials issued a similar warning about drone incursions over active fire zones.

At the time, officials said if a drone is detected within the temporary flight restriction zone, all firefighting aircraft, including helicopters and fixed-wing planes, must immediately stop suppression operations until the airspace is confirmed clear. Officials say those interruptions can delay critical firefighting efforts and put lives, homes and property at greater risk.

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