Two brush fires recently broke out in the Reno/Sparks area.
Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue says 85% of fires are started by people, including the fires from Tuesday.
"Smokey the Bear said this 80 years ago, that only you can prevent wildfires, and that still reigns true to this day," said Adam Mayberry, Communications Officer for Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue.
"Those fires were in fact human caused, that we know," Mayberry said. "We just don't know what the trigger point was and the exact nature of the cause."
TMFR are asking people to be more mindful, to help keep fires at a minimum this year.
"Certainly in the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District we're asking people to not engage in outdoor activities that can cause fires and certainly open burning, meaning pile burns are strictly prohibited," Mayberry said.
Mayberry says there's many ways a fire can start.
Target shooting, grinding metal, and tossing cigarettes can also create wildfires.
When driving, he is asking for people to make sure no chains are hanging off. They can create sparks from the road and can cause roadside fires, especially if near brush and dry vegetation.
For people barbecuing, he recommends that you make sure you clean the grill and that there's no leaks in it.
For those who plan on going camping and having a fire, you must do it in a metal container, but fire restrictions vary from campsite to campsite.
Mayberry recommends people always carry a fire extinguisher and water so they can put a fire out if it starts to get out of hand.
He says the biggest thing people can use is common sense.
"If it's a hot, dry and windy day that really should be a clear message not to really be outdoors and engaging in activities that could spark fires," Mayberry said.
Mayberry also says everyone should have an evacuation plan and kit ready to go, because a fire, as we saw, can happen at any moment.
He also says that you don't have to wait for first responders to tell you to leave, if you don't feel safe, pick up your stuff and go.
