What is the proper action if a UAS battery is damaged or overheats?

• A. Continue to fly after cooling
• B. Safely power down and safely dispose of or isolate the battery.
• C. Use it again after inspection
• D. Replace with a new battery before flight

Answer: (B)

When a UAS battery is damaged or overheats, the danger is a potential fire or thermal runaway. The safest action is to stop power to the system and prevent the damaged battery from causing harm. Safely power down the aircraft, remove the battery if you can do so without risk, and then dispose of it properly or isolate it away from anything flammable. This stops further heat generation and reduces the chance of a fire or hazardous exposure. Do not fly again with a damaged battery, and do not reuse it after inspection—the damage may not be visible and could reoccur. If you need a replacement, use a new battery only after the damaged one has been safely handled and disposed of according to proper procedures.