Memorial Weekend is often seen as the unofficial start to summer and a long weekend for many, but the day is about more than socializing with friends and family, it commemorates our fallen military personnel who so bravely gave their lives. Recognizing the gift of freedom as we gather with friends and family over this special weekend, please celebrate safely and take a moment to review these safety tips:
- If you plan on hiking, biking, and using the trail systems around the Lake Tahoe basin, there are many options, please visit Tahoe Rim Trail Association/Maps & Trail Information for current conditions and trail information.
- Most National Forest beaches and campgrounds at Lake Tahoe open mid-May, but some backcountry campgrounds may still be closed, check opening dates on USFS Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit current recreation conditions.
- Wear clothing that you can layer to keep you warm and dry.
- If you plan to enjoy any water activities, whether “in”, “on”, or “around” the water, educate yourself about the colder temperatures of Lake Tahoe and be safe.
- Know Before You Go – check the weather and water temperature.
- Plan and Prepare – life jackets save lives, make sure they are available. Bring essential gear for boating.
- Respect the water and mother nature – know the water conditions, obey posted safety signs, and always tell someone your plan when headed out into the water.
- Learn how to respond, call 911 and get help if someone else is in trouble. Do not go in the water. To assist others: Reach, Throw, Don’t Go. If you are in trouble: Flip, Float, Relax.
- Recreate responsibly and Leave No Trace.
There are currently no summer fire restrictions in place for Incline Village and Crystal Bay, Nevada.
Winter fire restrictions are still in effect which allows for solid fuel (wood and charcoal) grilling, with the following guidelines:
All grilling appliances shall be used within the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. Follow these simple safety tips when using solid-fuel, charcoal, or propane grills.
- Propane, charcoal, and other solid-fuel grills should only be used outdoors.
- The grill should be placed far away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
Charcoal Grills:
- Charcoal grills are prohibited on combustible surfaces.
- There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
- If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
- There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
- When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container. Contact the Fire District for a free ash can (residents will need to have some type of wood-burning heating appliance to be considered for the program). To obtain a free ash can, residents may fill out an application at the Fire District Administration Office, 866 Oriole Way, Incline Village. If the required criteria are met, an ash can will be provided.
Propane Grills:
- Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
- Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles.
- If your grill has a gas leak, by smell, or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
- If you smell gas while cooking, immediately leave the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
- If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.
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