FBI aiding firefighter officials neutralize drones flying illegally near wildfires

As efforts increase to battle what is turning out to be another merciless summer of wildfires in California, local firefighter officials are getting a hand from the FBI to detect, track, and ground drones being flown illegally around blazes, according to an exclusive report by CNN.

Appealing to private UAV pilots to stay clear of raging flames has become a virtually year-round activity as the combination of global warming and extended droughts both increase the threat and time frame of fires breaking out. Now, says CNN, local authorities are being assisted by the FBI to keep watch for drones operating illegally near wildfires, and then follow a digital path to pilots to bring them down.

The Federal Aviation Administration issues NOTAMs for virtually all areas where blazes are being battled, meaning anyone who does so anyway risks a fine ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 for the offense. The reasons for the drone ban are obvious, given the large capacity…