Kettering News No Drone Zone If you’re headed off to a fun event like Go 4th!, you might be tempted to bring along your drone to capture some footage. Don’t do it—drones are prohibited from this event due to serious safety concerns. We checked in with Fire Marshal Bill Ford of the Kettering Fire Department to learn exactly what risks drones pose at events like Go 4th!. ( “The use of drones has become an issue for Public Safety Agencies, Police and Fire because their operation can pose a risk or interfere with legitimate public safety operations,” Ford said. “A safety zone based on shell sizes is established for public fireworks displays, and it is important that foreign objects not enter into the area designated for the shell trajectories. As a result, the Division of State Fire Marshal’s office has recommended that we monitor the use of drones, especially if they operate in close proximity to our public fireworks shows.” “The use of drones has become an issue for Public Safety Agencies, Police and Fire because their operation can pose a risk or interfere with legitimate public safety operations.” – Fire Marshal Bill Ford of the Kettering Fire Department drones are not welcome at our event. If a drone operator were to create a hazard or cause harm to others, there are potential criminal penalties provided for in the Ohio Revised Code.” Do your part to keep those around you safe at Go 4th! this summer— capture the memories on your handheld camera or phone and leave the drone at home! Top Tips to Go 4th! Want to have your best Fourth of July ever? Check out our top tips for enjoying Kettering’s spectacular Go 4th! celebration and join us on Thursday, July 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Delco Park. Tip #1 ) But what if you’re planning to use it before the fireworks? Still a bad plan. “Even the mere operation of a drone in the area of a public event could create a hazard simply because of the large number of spectators at the event (if the operator would, for example, lose control of the unit and the fact that it might land into an area occupied by spectators),” Ford said. “There are many regulations concerning the operation of drones, especially at night, as regulated by the FCC. As a result of these issues and the safety of our patrons, For more information, call 937.296.2587. Get comfortable for an evening of patriotic fun. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks, refreshments and your camera. Please leave alcohol, tents, drones and pets at home. Tip #2 Please leave your sparklers and fireworks at home. Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered. We have an awesome fireworks display scheduled to begin at 10 p.m.! Tip #3 What happens when you host the biggest party of the year? A LOT of people show up! Before you head out to Delco Park, plan your route and where you will park. Even better? Walk or ride your bike. Tip #4 Each year, we put our hearts into planning a fun, active and festive Independence Day celebration for our guests. Go 4th! offers live music, a kid’s play zone and tasty concessions. Review our schedule of events before the big day so you don’t miss a moment of it. Tip #7 Go 4th! is a no drone zone! Due to safety concerns, drones are prohibited from the festival. You’re welcome to bring handheld cameras and phones to capture the magic. Tip #5 Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate, but we don’t let that dampen our spirits. In most cases Go 4th! is held rain or shine. However, if the weather looks questionable, check our Facebook page (PlayKettering) or our website (www.playkettering.org) for event updates. Tip #6 Safety of our guests, staff and community is our top priority. Please be aware of your surroundings and the thousands of pedestrians entering and exiting Delco Park. playkettering.org 7 GENERAL INFORMATION Play