Make fire safety part of Summertime plans

Fire danger is high, Please be alert

Reno, Nev. July 10, 2019.  Summer is in full swing, and our climate conditions will remain dry and hot.  Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District reminds Washoe County citizens to keep fire safety a priority.

“We should all do our part to help protect our wildlands,” said Truckee Meadows Fire Chief Charles Moore.  “Summer is a time to vacation and experience the wonderful outdoor environment of northern Nevada.  While we want everyone to enjoy time with family and loved ones, we also want our citizens to be fire safe.”

If you are participating in outdoor activities that could ignite a fire such as camping, target shooting, and riding ATVs or off road motorcycles, bring fire suppression equipment such as water, an extinguisher and shovel.

TMFPD is responding on average, to a brush fire a day.  As a reminder, it is illegal to possess or use fireworks and/or pyrotechnics within the Truckee Meadows and North Lake Tahoe Fire Districts which includes the unincorporated areas of Washoe County.  Report illegal fireworks activity, and contact the Sheriff’s non-emergency dispatch at (775) 785-WCSO.

Now is the time to remove dry and dead vegetation, and create defensible space around your home and property.  Refer to www.livingwithfire.com for more information and calculations on defensible space.

 Summertime Fire Safety Tips:

• Target shooters are encouraged to use a firing range such as Washoe County’s Regional Shooting Facility.
• Never throw cigarettes or smoking material from a moving vehicle. Extinguish cigarettes in proper designated receptacles, or cup of water.
• Open (pile) burning is strictly prohibited in Washoe County. This includes barrel burning, campfires, and bonfires.
• Don’t park a hot car or other machinery in dry grass.
• Don’t allow gasoline or motor oil to spill on grass or other vegetation.
• Tractors, off-road vehicles and equipment being used in wooded areas, such as chainsaws, should have spark arrestors.
• Secure trailer chains and keep them off the ground. Dragging chains can create sparks and trigger a fire.
• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, and never leave young children alone with an open flame.
• Fire pits are legal in Washoe County as long as the pit is covered with a screen or mesh. They should be at least 15 feet from a structure or combustible material.
  • Residents should clear all combustibles, have sufficient water available at all times for extinguishment, and always make sure that the fire is completely out prior to leaving it unattended.
  • Truckee Meadows Fire encourages residents to let their neighbors know they have an outdoor fireplace at their residence, so that the neighbors are less likely to call in to report a fire to dispatch.

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