Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue is reminding residents to be cautious when participating in outdoor target shooting activities this summer.
TMFR says several recent fires have been caused by target shooting.
When a bullet hits a metal target or solid rock, friction can create small fragments of lead or copper that are hot enough to glow and start a fire. A stray bullet can also seriously injure or even kill a bystander.
“We encourage anyone participating in outdoor target shooting to bring a fire extinguisher, water, or hand tools so you can quickly extinguish a small fire if one starts,” said Fire Chief Richard Edwards. “Postpone target shooting on hot, windy days, when even a small spark can spread quickly and ignite a wildfire. Always place your targets on dirt or gravel, well away from dry grass, leaves, brush, and trees, and avoid shooting in rocky areas where bullets can create sparks.”
Do not shoot at metal targets.
If you choose to target shoot in the wildland, do so early in the morning, when temperatures and higher moisture levels reduce the risk of igniting dry vegetation before it has been heated by the afternoon sun.
Residents are urged to use a Washoe County Regional Shooting Facility or a local indoor shooting range as an alternative to areas in the wildland.
Additionally, it is unlawful to discharge any gun, pistol, rifle, shotgun, or other firearm within any congested area of the county. Congested area/firearms discharge maps can be found here.
It is unlawful to discharge any gun, pistol, rifle, shotgun or other firearm in, on or across any county road or highway.
Additionally, it is unlawful to discharge in the unincorporated area of Washoe County any gun, pistol, rifle, or other firearm within 5,000 feet of any dwelling occupied by another person or persons. The distance is reduced to 1,000 feet of any dwelling occupied by another person or persons when using a shotgun, air rifle or B-B gun. Tracer ammunition and exploding targets are illegal year-round in Washoe County and on public lands.
(TMFR contributed to this report.)
