Why First Aid is Essential for Drone Operators
Whether you’re surveying a roof, capturing footage, or flying in rural locations, being a drone operator means working in a variety of environments — often alone and sometimes far from immediate help. That’s why every drone pilot should carry a well-equipped medical kit in their vehicle and maintain basic first aid training.
At Buzz Drones, safety is one of our top priorities. As drone professionals and industry advocates, we recommend all UAV operators treat first aid readiness as a non-negotiable part of their operating setup.
Lone Working and Hazards in the Field
While operating drones might seem low-risk at a glance, there are several real-world risks every pilot should be aware of:
Lone working: Many drone jobs, like surveying or inspecting sites, require you to be alone or in remote areas.
Burn and cut hazards: Propellers, batteries, and equipment can cause injury — especially in emergencies or during setup/takedown.
Unexpected public emergencies: You may witness or be first on the scene to a medical emergency involving a member of the public.
Being prepared could save a life — including your own.
What Medical Kit should you keep in your vehicle?
The location of our FAK
At Buzz Drones, our team keeps vehicle medical kits that are:
Easily accessible – Not buried under gear
Routinely checked – Items go out of date or get used
Clearly known – Ensure anyone on site knows where it is
Simple to use – Carry what you’re trained to use
Here’s a solid kit recommendation for drone operators:
Recommended Vehicle First Aid Contents:
Tourniquet – For severe bleeding control
Tough cut scissors – Cuts through clothing and straps
Emergency trauma bandage – For quick dressing of injuries
Aspirin – For suspected heart attacks (with caution)
Neck brace (optional) – If trained in its use
Plasters & bandages – For minor wounds and abrasions
Disposable gloves – Personal protection for the responder
Burn gel or dressing – For battery-related burns or heat injuries
CPR face shield – For safe resuscitation
Basic instruction card or prompt sheet – Helpful in high-stress scenarios
First Aid Training – What Should Drone Operators Have?
As a drone pilot, a basic first aid qualification is an excellent start. At Buzz Drones, our founder holds First Aid at Work + Forestry certification due to a background with HMA Tree Care. While the Forestry addition is beneficial for rural operations, the standard First Aid at Work is a great place to begin for most operators.
We recommend:
First Aid at Work (FAW) – Covers critical skills like CPR, bleeding control, burns, and basic trauma.
Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) – A shorter, one-day version, suitable for most commercial pilots.
Outdoor or Remote First Aid Courses – Especially relevant if you’re flying in hard-to-access areas.
Refresher training every 3 years, and annual skill updates where possible.
Final Thoughts from Buzz Drones
Carrying a medical kit isn’t just for show — it’s about being prepared for the worst so you can operate at your best.
At Buzz Drones, we believe safety is just as important as flying skills. Equipping yourself with the right medical gearand first aid training is part of being a professional drone operator. Whether you’re a solo pilot or part of a larger UAV team, make sure you and those around you are ready for anything.
Stay Safe. Stay Professional. Fly Smart.
📍 Buzz Drones UK – Your trusted partner for drone services, training, and safety support.
📞 Want advice on gear or training? Contact our team today!
