September 18, 2020 3:25 a.m.

Oregon fire officials are expecting that as visibility improves, a large number of helicopters and planes will soon take flight and start engaging on the many wildfires in the state.

A release from the Oregon Department of Forestry said officials are appealing to drone enthusiasts to not fly their equipment while the skies over Oregon are so busy.

ODF’s Chief of Fire Protection Doug Grafe said two key ways firefighters use aviation assets is to actively fight fires using water and retardant drops and to provide an aerial view of the fires, especially hidden hot spots that need extinguishing.

Grafe said the aerial view informs their operational decisions and helps provide accurate information about fire perimeters and activities to the public.

State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said they appreciate the cooperation of drone hobbyists. She said by keeping their drones on the ground for the time being, agencies will be able to get their helicopters and planes safely in the air fighting fires.