There are only three places where you can legally buy fireworks in Washoe County, and they are all located on tribal land in the Pyramid Lake area, and they can only be ignited at Blockhouse Beach, Rawhide Beach and Indian Head Beach. Fireworks are not only illegal in Washoe County and everywhere else in the area, they are extremely dangerous for a variety of reasons. Not only can you hurt yourself or others, but the hot, dry weather makes it too likely that wildfires will break out, even if you think you`re responsible. Instead, head to one of the area`s professional fireworks and enjoy a truly spectacular performance that doesn`t light a wildfire. The penalty for possession or use of fireworks can be a fine of up to $1,000.00 and up to 6 months in jail for any conviction for an offense, which includes parents of minors. In addition, the person(s) may also be held responsible for firefighting costs. Fireworks are legal because these beaches are far from anything that can catch fire. “You don`t even have to fire fireworks to break the law,” said Sarah Johns of WCSO. Fireworks can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and are warm enough to cause third-degree burns and serious injuries, and damage to vision and hearing.
Children are particularly sensitive to hazards. And loud noises caused by pyrotechnics can also scare off pets. Illegal possession or use of fireworks can result in fines of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail for each offence. In addition, the cost of removal and any other injury or liability caused by fireworks are the direct responsibility of those who use fireworks. To report illegal fireworks activity, contact the Sheriff`s Non-Emergency Dispatch Department at (775) 785-WCSO (9276). RENO, N.C. (KOLO) — The Washoe County Sheriff`s Office says they still get a lot of fireworks calls at this time of year, and you don`t even need to use them to get punished. While it may be legal to purchase fireworks in certain locations outside of Washoe County and on tribal lands, it is illegal to own or use fireworks and/or pyrotechnics in the Truckee Meadows and North Lake Tahoe Fire Districts, which include the unincorporated areas of Washoe County.
Johns says that simply owning illegal fireworks, whether you turned them on or not, is a misdemeanor and carries a $500 fine. Reno, Nev. 23 June 2020. As the country celebrates its 245th anniversary, Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue reminds residents that the use of fireworks in Washoe County is illegal and dangerous. Fireworks are capable of lighting forest fires in dry brush and trees. “This summer, our area is very hot and the brush and grass are very dry,” said Charles Moore, Chief of the Truckee Meadows Fire District. “The use of fireworks increases the likelihood of a wildfire in the area, endangering residents and their homes, as well as firefighters. Enjoy your time with friends and family and find alternative activities like professional fireworks that don`t light fires,” said Chief Moore.
The Washoe County Sheriff`s Office is working with the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District and the North Lake Tahoe Fire District to emphasize that safety comes first when you enjoy your Independence Day celebrations. Here are some tips for a safe and healthy July 4 and to prevent wildfires during the hot, dry months. “People just need to understand that if you didn`t buy it from Target or a department store, you can`t use it,” she added. Source: Washoe County Sheriff`s Office press release. Given the dry winter, Truckee Meadows fire officials are particularly concerned about fireworks this year and are asking everyone to be on high alert no matter how you celebrate the fourth of July. Contact: Adam Mayberry, 775.233.3991 or amayberry@tmfpd.us.
