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I will say it again, and you will
hear and read this over and over again in forums, from fellow RC flyers,
manuals, etc...
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. During the build there will be areas where you
are recommended to only hand tighten a screw due to changes later on
in the build. Don't forget to tighten these later on!
After the build go through the
steps again and make sure every screw and nut are secured.
Check wirings as well. There are reasons why a manufacturer
suggest to connect specific wires together. I've heard of a
heli failing during flight because the pilot decided to solder a
connection differently from what the manufacturer suggested.
Due to vibrations the connection failed. Luckily nobody was
injured. Just the ego and wallet of the pilot.
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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