Temperatures are high, and so is the fire danger that comes along with it.
Firefighters tell us there are a lot of dangers that the public needs to know about when it comes to accidental sparks.
One example they cautioned against was lawn mowers starting fires.
John Mandell, the Operations Chief for the Reno Fire Department, tells us, "A lot of lawnmowers actually start a lot of fires that we go on; it's just sparks from a lawnmower. Mowing the lawn with a rock in the lawn on a hot day sparks the grass on fire."
Firefighters also say barbecuing is another common way they see fires start. Using a barbecue on a balcony is not allowed; you also shouldn't use a barbecue within 10 feet of combustible material. Also be sure to properly dispose of barbecue ashes in a metal container and make sure they're fully cooled before throwing them away.
Firefighters also tell us people should pay attention to forecasts to be on top of red flag warnings and make sure to be ready in case they have to evacuate.
Mandell, say, "Whether it's through social media, the news, or the Perimeter app, you want to make sure you get a notification if there are any fires." So just being aware of your situation and, when a fire does start, having a go bag ready to go with essential items, your prescriptions, and important documentation—have that ready to go.
With the Fourth of July coming up, firefighters also want to remind people private fireworks are illegal in Washoe County. They will let people turn in illegal fireworks with no questions asked at any fire stations.
Mandell also tells us, "People can turn in any illegal fireworks they come across or may find to any fire station in the city. There are 15 fire stations in the city, and we will dispose of them properly and make sure they're not causing problems."
The best thing you can do to stay safe from fires is to be prepared with defensible space.
He explains, "Make sure you have 100-foot clearance around your house; keep your grass cut short and watered; keep vegetation cleared out; keep that defensible space around your house."
