Personal fireworks in Washoe County, and most of the state, are illegal. Reno Police and Reno Fire worked together to put a plan in place to stop people from using them. Those caught with them can receive anything from a verbal warning all the way to a felony arrest, largely based on the crime and damage incurred.
“You light a fuse that says it's five seconds and it goes off in one and a half, and you got tragedy. So, I mean severe injuries, severe burning, death, fires, catastrophe,” said Reno Police Chief Corey Solferino.
Chief Solferino says the department has formed a team dedicated specifically to deal with firework enforcement over the holiday, so as they handle an increased call volume, illegal firework uses won’t slip through the cracks and lead to fires, injuries, or death. Fire marshals and the fire department will assist with enforcement.
Reno Fire's Chief Dave Cochran cleared up another common misconception.
“We know that you can purchase fireworks legally on the reservation in some other areas across the state. There are legal fireworks stands. That does not mean you can bring them into Reno,” said Chief Cochran. “They're illegal in Reno. They're illegal in greater Washoe County.”
Those who may have purchased fireworks and brought them into the county illegally can avoid criminal charges by calling non-emergency dispatch lines and surrendering them. The Reno Police Department traditionally collects them and stores them in a safe location until they can properly dispose of them. Their dispatch phone number is 334-COPS or (775) 334-2677.
The greater Reno area has many public displays, and both chiefs urge the community to take advantage of those.
“Enjoy the professional shows and let's not have amateur hour,” said Chief Cochran.
A guide to many of shows and activities can be found here.
We live in a very dry climate and are currently in our peak wildfire season. One spark from an illegal firework can lead to fires -- as well as injury and death.
