Local police and fire officials are urging residents to celebrate this Fourth of July safely, warning that holiday gatherings often lead to preventable emergencies across the region.
The Reno Police Department and Reno Fire Department are encouraging people to make safety a priority throughout the holiday weekend as travel, outdoor recreation, barbecues and gatherings increase. Officials said first responders typically see a rise in preventable incidents during this time of year.
All fireworks are illegal within Reno city limits. Officials warned that illegal fireworks can lead to wildfires, serious injuries, property damage, and costly suppression efforts. People who possess, use, sell, or distribute illegal fireworks may face fines and other legal consequences. Those responsible for starting a fire may also be held financially liable for damages and response costs.
"Every year, firefighters respond to fires and injuries that could have been prevented," said Reno Fire Chief David Cochran. "In Northern Nevada's dry conditions, it only takes one spark to start a wildfire. The safest choice is to leave fireworks to the professionals and enjoy one of the many public celebrations taking place throughout our region."
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks start thousands of fires nationwide each year and cause injuries ranging from burns to permanent eye and hand injuries. Officials also noted fireworks can be stressful for pets, veterans, people with post-traumatic stress disorder, people with autism or sensory sensitivities, older adults, and young children.
Residents are encouraged to keep pets indoors during fireworks activity, ensure pets have updated identification tags and microchips, create a quiet and secure space for family members and pets sensitive to loud noises, and be considerate of neighbors who may be impacted by fireworks.
Officials are also urging people to avoid impaired driving, designate a sober driver before celebrations begin, keep grills away from homes, fences and combustible materials, never leave cooking equipment unattended, wear a life jacket while recreating on the Truckee River, closely supervise children around water, secure trailer safety chains to prevent sparks that can ignite roadside vegetation and safely surrender illegal fireworks through the Reno Fire Department's Fireworks Amnesty Program at any Reno fire station.
"Whether you're heading to a barbecue, spending time with family, or traveling to celebrate the holiday, make a plan and make safety your priority," said Reno Police Chief Corey Solferino. "Never drive impaired, always designate a sober driver, and remember that one bad decision can have life-changing consequences."
Residents are also encouraged to attend the City of Reno's Fourth on Fourth Parade and other community events throughout the holiday.
For more information on fire prevention and emergency preparedness, visit Reno.gov/Fire.
