If Santa brought you a drone for Christmas, read this or you could face a massive fine

Drones have become incredibly common in the last couple of years, and they have proved to be popular Christmas presents. But new drone owners are being warned that they are probably blissfully ignorant of the responsibilities of their new toys -- and this ignorance could prove costly.

There are very strict laws in place governing where, and how, drones can be flown. Failure to comply with these rules could lead to time in prison or an "unlimited fine" -- for people in the UK, at least. So what do you need to know before you take your drone for its maiden flight?

Drones are potentially dangerous pieces of kit, both for people and other airborne objects, so it is little wonder that there are regulations in place. The risks for drones to interfere with the flight of aircraft, for instance, is a danger that could hardly be overstated. Last month the Civil Aviation Authority launched its Drone Code guidelines, and the festive season is being used as a timely promotional tool.

Helping drone owners to stay 'drone safe' the guidelines starts off with five simple rules:

• Don't fly near airports or airfields
• Remember to stay below 400ft (120m)
• Observe your drone at all times -- stay 150ft (50m) away from people and property
• Never fly near aircraft
• Enjoy responsibly

Flying near aircraft could result in a prison sentence of up to five years, and there have been many reports of near-misses with planes in the past year. Jonathan Nicholson from the Civil Aviation Authority says:

Drone users have to understand that when taking to the skies they are potentially flying close to one of the busiest areas of airspace in the world. It is a complex system that brings together all manner of aircraft including passenger aeroplanes, military jets, helicopters, gliders and light aircraft. We want people to enjoy their new drones but use their common sense and remember that anyone operating a drone must do so responsibly.

Read more at dronesafe.uk.

Image credit: Maria Dryfhout / Shutterstock