It’s a common predicament for drone pilots to find their drone lodged in a tree due to strong winds or an inadvertent button press. When faced with this situation, what can you do? This article will explore techniques for removing a drone from a tree using everyday objects, cost-effective solutions, and preventative measures for the future.
Finding Your Drone’s Last Location
If you’re uncertain about the drone’s position in the tree, activate the display screen on your phone or remote control or review the last video on your headset. This will help you pinpoint the drone’s location, and then you can apply the solutions outlined below to recover it.
Methods for Retrieving a Drone Stuck in a Tree
Here are four basic approaches to recover a drone stuck in a tree using items commonly found at home:
- Climb the tree
Attempt climbing the tree to untangle branches and recover your drone. However, this may be challenging in some cases. Before climbing, ensure the tree is sturdy enough to bear your weight and has sufficient branches for grip. Always prioritize your safety over retrieving the drone.
- Use a ladder
If tree climbing isn’t feasible, consider using a ladder. You can rent one from a nearby store or fire station if you don’t own one. Ground-set ladders are safer than tree-mounted ones, as they provide more reliable support. A partner is recommended when using a ladder to help stabilize it and reduce fall risks.
- Utilize an extension rod
If the drone is lodged deep within dense branches and foliage, an extension rod can help pull it out. Avoid forcibly ripping the drone from the tree. If your drone has blade guards, attach a pole to them for easier retrieval.
- Employ a rope or fishing line
Using a rope or fishing line can aid in dropping the drone from the tree. While this method requires additional equipment and setup, it’s considered one of the best and easiest ways to extract a drone from a tree. You’ll need a robust fishing rod with a suitable weight attached for casting at the right distance. Secure the line or rope to a heavy object, ensuring it won’t slip, and practice throwing it away from the drone’s location. Once you’re comfortable, cast the weighted line or rope towards the drone to retrieve it.
Remember that if the drone still has battery power and flight control, you can try flying it out of the tree, but exercise caution to avoid worsening the situation.
