TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- Drones were a hot seller this holiday season but the next step is figuring out how and where to use them.
While it may be tempting to fly drones in backyards and neighborhoods, new owners should know a few things before trying them out.
"It's an exciting machine, obviously, when you buy them. The first thing you want to know is it does not fly out of the box," said Randy Yarborough, vice president of the Seminole Radio Control Club.
The club has flown aircrafts and drones at Apalachee Regional Park in Leon County for 27 years.
The Federal Aviation Administration requires drones weighing more than half a pound to be registered online.
"It's more to cover yourself," Yarborough said. "If you ever have a crash -- or you lose the drone -- somebody can go look up that registration and be able to find it for you."
In Leon County, there's a no-fly zone within five miles of the airport -- and drones can only fly up to 400 feet high.
"Most of the newer drones have a built-in sequence where it will not fly or exceed 400 feet," Yarborough said.
The park has two "heli-pads," designated area for drones to take off and land. But before it even hits the sky, the club says it's important to understand the technology behind it.
"Your air lounge, your dihedral of the aircraft, the rudder, the pitch -- that type of thing," said Yarborough. "That's all on the internet."
But for those who want to learn in person, the club says it's happy to help.
"Some flight rules, some general information. We sure don't want them to crash their drone the first time and not enjoy the experience."
To learn more, contact the Seminole Radio Flying Club at 850-523-0020. Apalachee Regional Park is open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to sunset.
