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Safety

 

I will say it again as I have years ago...

 

THIS IS NOT A TOY

 

Safety doesn't start just before you fly.  Safety begins when you start building your helicopter.  Making sure your helicopter is built properly will ensure a safe environment for you and everyone else around you and make flying enjoyable. 

 

Use the tools as recommended by the manufacturer.  Use loctite, glue or epoxy during the build where it is shown on the manual.  Don't take shortcuts.  Take your time. 

 

After the build go through the steps again and make sure every screw and nut are secured.  Check wirings as well. 

 

Have a first aid kit.  No need to elaborate on this.  I have been hit on the head, luckily with a very small heli's blades, that caused a small cut.  Imagine a bigger machine?

 

Before starting up the heli make sure the receiver is in communication with the transmitter.  Perform a range test.  Read the transmitter manual. 

 

Before starting up the motor make sure the throttle is down and throttle hold on.

 

If possible fly with someone.  When things go bad you will need someone's assistance whether it's for you or others.  Your assistant can also act as a spotter for other RC aircrafts or people nearby. 

 

For AP work, coordinate with your client on the events of the shoot.  You may have to block traffic or ask for assistance in crowd control.  You will hear this every time from other AP professionals.  Have an alternate or emergency landing zone.  This means having to go to the location before the day of the shoot and determine how you will shoot that day.  Find out the weather forecast for that day.

 

Perform post-flight inspection.  Check over your heli for anything that may have become loose or show signs of wear.

 

This is just a general guideline.  There are many more that can be added to this.  As you become more familiar with the routine create a checklist.

 

 Fly safe and have fun.

 

 

 

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