Winter Wildfire Danger! Smoke Alarms for your Valentine?
Even in the middle of winter, conditions can be ripe for a wildfire. In fact, just a few weeks ago, Truckee Meadows Fire along with Reno Fire and the Humboldt Toiyabe U.S. Forest Service, worked to extinguish a 67-acre fire on Peavine Mountain. The fire spread through patches of snow!
The lack of moisture to date in the Truckee Meadows has created an increased risk for fires. And the weather forecast does not look promising in the short term. Please consider this a gentle reminder to be aware of the dangers of certain outdoor activities that could trigger wildfires. Always have a fire extinguisher, or water and hand tools nearby in case you start a fire. Wind is always the biggest variable in northern Nevada that presents a significant risk for fire to spread, as well as drying out the natural vegetation creating a further danger for a wildfire.
On another note, our local chapter of the American Red Cross offers a sweet deal for Valentine’s Day
It may not be a typical Valentine’s Day gift, but love comes in all forms. Show how much you care for a loved one and order a free smoke alarm and installation from the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada.
Through its Home Fire Campaign, the Red Cross hopes to reduce home fire deaths and injuries by 25 percent nationwide. This is a great opportunity to woo your valentine with a free smoke alarm, along with a customized fire escape plan and fire-safety education shared by Red Cross volunteers. This is a free service and there is no obligation.
To request a free smoke alarm for yourself or a loved one, contact the Red Cross of Northern Nevada at 775-954-1185. Please leave your name, address, zip code and phone number.
Every day, seven people in this country die in a home fire and another 36 people are hurt. Most of these deaths occur in homes that lack working smoke alarms.
Additional facts and statistics:
- Since July 1, 2019, the Red Cross of Northern Nevada has responded to 80 home fires.
- Smoke alarms cut the risk of death from a home fire in half.
- More than $7 billion in property damage occurs every year due to home fires.
- Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.
Adam Mayberry
Fire Communications Manager
Direct: 775.326.6073
Mobile: 775.233.3991