Long Island authorities remind people to follow drone rules

Officials in Suffolk County, N.Y., are holding a press briefing to remind people to follow the rules and avoid restricted airspace when flying drones.

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr., noted that many people may have gotten drones as a gift over the holidays and reminded residents that unmanned aircraft of a certain size must be registered and drone operators should familiarize themselves with the rules governing drones.

Toulon focused on the issue of drones approaching restricted airspace near airports, posing a risk to air traffic and public safety. Officials also noted drones have been used to drop contraband at prisons, raising additional concerns.

Authorities said they are also working with the FBI to investigate drones in the area and arrest and charge those who are flying them illegally.

They also reminded people not to shoot drones, pointing out that falling drones can crash into property and become a safety issue.

The reminder comes after a series of mysterious drone sightings in the northeast.

Primarily seen in New Jersey, there have been multiple reports of drones in the night skies, some described as being as large as a school bus.

People have questioned where the drones are coming from, noting that some have been seen near sensitive locations, including President-elect Trump's Florida golf course and an Army munitions depot.

Federal officials have downplayed concerns about the drones, claiming they do not pose a safety or national security risk.