The stunning natural scenery of Douglas County, coupled with its close proximity to wilderness expanses, renders it vulnerable to wildfires, particularly during periods of dry, scorching weather.

Smoke associated with wildfires can contribute to COPD exacerbations during heavy smoke conditions, especially in older populations. Visit Rural NV Smoke for up-to-date smoke conditions in the area.

The region also experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, leading to blocked roads, power outages, and limited access to essential services.

Flooding (flash, alluvial, and snow melt) are common emergencies in Douglas County, especially during the spring months. Warming temperatures with melting snow and changing weather fronts can pose significant risks. 

For older adults and people with disabilities, navigating these conditions can be challenging, making winter storm preparedness crucial.

You can help to protect yourself by:

• Creating winter emergency kits
• Arranging for snow removal assistance
• Planning for your needs in the event of evacuation, being trapped at home, or losing power
• Staying informed on floods
• Staying informed about weather forecasts
• Preparing defensible space around your home
• Staying informed on wildfires

It’s crucial for residents of Douglas County to stay informed about potential emergencies and have an emergency preparedness plan in place, including having a network, knowing evacuation routes, having emergency supplies, and staying tuned to local news and authorities for updates during such events.

Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency: 9-1-1
• Mental Health Emergency: 9-8-8
• Reverse 911 Mobile App
• Douglas County Emergency Management: 775-783-6037
• Douglas County Concern Reporting
• Emergency Alerts & Severe Weather Warnings
• Tahoe/Douglas Fire Protection District: 775-588-3591
• East Fork Fire Protection District: 775-782-9040
• Douglas County Sheriff’s Department
  • Non-Emergency/Dispatch 775-782-5126
  • Admin (General Questions) 775-782-9945
• Nevada Highway Patrol: 775-688-2500
• Nevada Health, Human and Social Services: 2-1-1
• Nevada Dept. of Transportation (Live Traffic/Road Conditions/Cameras): 5-1-1
• PERIMETER (Real-time mapping for evacuations and other emergency incidents)
• Poison Control: 800-222-1222
• NV Energy (Outages & Emergencies): 775-834-4100 — Call 9-1-1 for a gas leak
• Southwest Gas: 800-772-4555 — Call 9-1-1 for a gas leak
• American Red Cross: 775-856-1000
• Weather Updates
• FBI: 775-825-6600
• CDC: 800-311-3435