Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

RENO, Nev. (May 14, 2026) — After a wildfire season that burned nearly 400,000 acres across Nevada last year, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada is helping families take steps now to reduce risk before fires threaten homes and neighborhoods.

Throughout Wildfire Awareness Month this May and during the summer, Red Cross volunteers will provide wildfire prevention information and a basic home readiness assessment during appointments for free smoke alarm installations. Residents can schedule an appointment at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada or call the Red Cross of Northern Nevada at 775-954-1185.

The home visit will include guidance on creating defensible space by clearing dry brush, leaves, pine needles and overgrown vegetation from around the home, and moving firewood away from the house. Volunteers will also share home fire safety information, review escape plans with residents and install free smoke alarms in households that need them.

“Wildfire season can put Northern Nevada families at risk quickly, especially in communities near dry grass, brush and open space,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “These home visits give residents practical information they can use around their property while also making sure they have working smoke alarms and a plan to get out safely if a fire starts at home.”

Northern Nevada Faces Increased Wildfire Threats In 2026
Nevada saw a sharp increase in wildfire activity last year. In 2025, 690 wildfires burned 395,265 acres statewide, a 295% increase from the year before. Many of the state’s largest fires burned in Northern and Rural Nevada, including the Cottonwood Peak Fire in Elko County, which burned about 132,600 acres, and the Winnemucca Mountain Fire in Humboldt County. Other major fires affected Elko, Humboldt, Pershing, Washoe and Douglas counties.

More large fires could occur in Northern and Rural Nevada this year. The National Interagency Fire Center projects a higher-than-normal risk of significant fires in Northern Nevada and the Sierra Front by July and August. Low snowpack, drought, carryover grass and brush from past seasons and new spring growth could leave more fuel available once warmer, drier weather sets in.

Steps To Take Before Wildfire Season

• Create defensible space by clearing dry brush, leaves, pine needles and overgrown vegetation from around the home, and store firewood at least 30 feet away from the house.
• Trim trees and thin brush near the home to reduce fuel that can help a wildfire spread.
• Remove stored items from under decks, porches and outdoor stairways.
• Repair or replace missing roof shingles or tiles that could allow embers to enter.
• Cover exterior vents with metal mesh to help keep windblown embers out of attics and crawl spaces.
• Clearly mark driveways and house numbers so firefighters can find the property quickly.
• Identify an outdoor water source, such as a pond, pool or spigot, with a hose that can reach all areas of the property.

Help Prevent Wildfires

• Check local fire restrictions before lighting a campfire, using a fire pit, burning debris or grilling with charcoal.
• Do not drive or park on dry grass or tall weeds. Use paved areas or designated roads when possible.
• Secure trailer chains so they do not drag and check tires and brakes before driving through dry areas.
• Avoid mowing on windy or very dry days. Mow early in the day and avoid dry weeds, dry grass or rocky areas where blades can spark.
• Never leave a campfire, fire pit or grill unattended, and make sure flames, coals and ashes are completely out before leaving.
• Clear dry grass, weeds and leaves from around propane tanks and gasoline storage containers.

Build A 72-Hour Emergency Kit
Every household should have an emergency kit with food, water, medications, copies of important documents, phone chargers, pet supplies and other essentials for at least three days. Download the free Red Cross Emergency app at redcross.org/apps for checklists, weather alerts and guidance before, during and after a wildfire.

During a Wildfire

• Monitor local media and emergency alerts for updates.
• Reduce smoke exposure by closing windows and doors and staying indoors when it is safe to do so.
• If evacuation is ordered, leave immediately and go to a pre-identified safe location.

Returning Home After a Fire

• Return only when fire officials say it is safe.
• Use caution when returning to the property. Watch for damaged trees, unstable structures and downed utility lines, and report hazards to local authorities.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.