In Reno and Sparks, the area’s arid climate and surrounding wilderness areas make it susceptible to wildfires, especially during hot, dry summers. These fires can spread rapidly, endangering lives and properties. It’s crucial for older adults and people with disabilities to have a well-thought-out evacuation plan, considering their unique needs, in case of a wildfire.
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.
Another common emergency in the Reno/Sparks area is severe weather, including thunderstorms and flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas. These sudden floods can pose significant risks to vulnerable populations.
You can help to protect yourself by:
- Thinking about how a flood could affect you
- Planning for your needs in the event of evacuation, being trapped at home, or losing power
- Staying informed about weather forecasts
- Preparing defensible space around your home
- Staying informed on wildfires
It’s crucial for residents of the Reno/Sparks area 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
- Washoe County Emergency Preparedness Guide
- Emergency Alerts & Severe Weather Warnings
- Washoe County Sheriff’s Office: 775-328-3001
- Reno Community Connect
- Reno Fire Department: 775-334-2300
- Reno Police Department: 775-334-2677
- Sparks Fire
Department: 775-353-2231 - Sparks Police Department: 775-353-2279
- Washoe County Emergency Management: 775-337-5898
- 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
- Nevada Highway Patrol: 775-688-2500
- American Red Cross: 775-856-1000
- CDC: 800-311-3435