Summer is still a few weeks away, but peak fire season isn't waiting around.
Already we've seen several fires spark in Washoe County, from smaller ones in the North Valleys, to a 23-acre one north of Spanish Springs.
Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue says that one started from a spark from someone welding. Those kinds of activities need to be avoided during high fire danger.
"Avoid activities that may cause a spark, such as yard work, having chains dragged behind a trailer, parking on dry vegetation with a vehicle, campfires, target shooting and anything else that could, create a spark," says Derek Keller, Division Chief of Operations for Sparks Fire Department.
If you haven't already, now is the time to plan ahead for a wildfire.
Find the fastest way out of your neighborhood, and a secondary route just in case.
Have a go-bag ready and keep an eye on conditions.
"Just have ways to either watch the news or to get alerts on your phone to always stay up to the current conditions," Keller says.
Keller says if you see smoke or flames, don't hesitate - call 911 right away.
"Any fires that are spotted, you should immediately dial 911," he says. "Make sure that they're in a safe location. If they can get out and then call 911 if it is in your house. If it is out in the forest, or if you're out in the desert, make sure you can get away."
There are several tools, including Perimeter Map and Watch Duty, that give you the latest information on evacuations and fire danger in your area.
Whenever fires break out in northern Nevada and the eastern Sierra, stick with 2 News Nevada for fire coverage on air, online, and on our free 2 News Nevada app.
Alin Beane breaks down how everyone can stay fire aware.
