ST. MARYS, Ga. — Residents in St. Marys might notice drones hovering over power lines this week, but authorities are urging calm. Georgia Power is conducting aerial inspections from Monday through Wednesday, ensuring the safety and reliability of the city’s electrical infrastructure. The St. Marys Police Department took to Facebook on Sunday to reassure locals that the drones would not infringe on Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay airspace.
Aerial Inspections Set to Begin
The scheduled drone flights will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. According to officials, the initiative aims to enhance power grid monitoring and detect potential maintenance issues before they escalate. Drone technology allows utility companies to conduct these assessments efficiently without requiring crews to physically inspect every segment of the power lines.
“We understand that drones in the sky might raise concerns, but these are routine inspections,” the St. Marys Police Department noted in its statement. Authorities emphasized that the public should refrain from calling emergency services regarding the flights, as they pose no security risk.
No Airspace Violations Near Naval Base
St. Marys’ proximity to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay naturally raises questions about airspace security. However, local authorities confirmed that the Georgia Power drones would steer clear of restricted zones. The police department assured the public that there was no cause for alarm, stating that these inspections are a standard practice for infrastructure maintenance.
While there have been reports of mysterious drone sightings in other parts of the country, including recent incidents in New Jersey, these flights are scheduled and authorized. Officials clarified that the drones in use for these inspections are considerably smaller than those spotted in prior incidents.
Why Use Drones for Power Line Inspections?
The use of drones for power grid inspections is growing nationwide. The advantages include:
- Efficiency: Drones can cover large distances quickly, reducing the time needed for manual inspections.
- Safety: Utility workers avoid risky climbs on high-voltage infrastructure.
- Accuracy: High-resolution cameras and infrared sensors help detect faults before they cause outages.
Utility companies increasingly rely on drones to assess storm damage, monitor aging infrastructure, and improve overall service reliability.
Community Response and Precautions
While the police department’s statement aimed to ease concerns, some residents have expressed curiosity about the operation. Social media comments ranged from humorous takes on “Big Brother watching” to genuine inquiries about drone capabilities.
For those who may spot the drones, officials encourage a lighthearted approach. “Feel free to wave and smile,” the police department quipped, reinforcing the message that there is no threat to public safety.
Georgia Power has not indicated whether these inspections will become a recurring effort, but drone monitoring is likely to become more common as technology continues to advance. For now, residents of St. Marys can expect to see these small aircraft buzzing overhead—just not near the naval base.
