What should a pilot ensure when following departure procedures with low, close-in obstacles?

When following departure procedures that involve low, close-in obstacles, it is crucial for a pilot to ensure they can clear any obstacles that have been noted in the departure procedure. This is fundamental for safety, as obstacles close to the airport may not provide adequate clearance at low altitudes. The published notes about these obstacles serve as critical information for pilots to assess their departure flight path and to plan accordingly.

By confirming that they can clear the noted obstacles, pilots can make necessary adjustments to their flight path, such as altering their climb profile or selecting specific departure routes that provide safe clearance. This consideration is essential to avoid potential collisions and to ensure a safe takeoff, particularly in terrain that presents a significant threat due to proximity to the airport.

The other options do not reflect safe operational practices, as ignoring obstacle heights, assuming no threat exists during IFR conditions, or relying solely on visual inspections do not guarantee that a pilot has adequately considered the necessary precautions to avoid obstacles during departure.