Aug. 28, 2026 – Reno/Sparks, Nev. – Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) has declared a local public health emergency following the Hawk, Bug and Stallion fires.

The ash, debris and hazardous materials at properties destroyed or damaged by these wildfires can pose serious health and safety risks if they are disturbed, handled or improperly removed.

Residents are advised to refrain from debris removal at this time due to the safety risks, and to contact their insurance company, if possible. Several entities, including Washoe County, the City of Reno, NNPH and the State of Nevada, are working with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidance to develop a framework for safe debris removal in the fire areas.

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has requested a Presidential emergency declaration from the White House for federal resources to assist in recovery from the Hawk Fire.

“We understand that residents want to return to their homes and properties, but it is important to remember that ash and debris from homes destroyed by a wildfire can contain harmful materials,” said District Health Officer Dr. Chad Kingsley. “Sifting through ashes for items lost in the fire is different than debris removal. Hazardous materials can pose serious short- and long-term risks to individuals as well as impacts to public health and safety. Ensuring those materials are not disturbed is an urgent priority.”

Fire-damaged properties may contain hazardous materials from burned homes, vehicles and other structures. These materials can include chemicals, fuels, household products and other substances that may be toxic, cancer-causing, flammable, corrosive or reactive.

Residents should not attempt to handle, move or dispose of hazardous materials themselves. Improperly moving, removing or handling of debris outside of the ash footprint could lead to disqualification of possible federal assistance and a fine. Hazardous materials handling and removal should only be done by licensed hazardous waste contractors.

If you encounter hazardous materials on a fire-damaged property:

• Do not touch, move or dispose of them
• Keep children and pets away from the area.
• Avoid activities that could disturb or spread the material.
• For an immediate threat to life or safety, call 911.

Exposure to wildfire ash can cause:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Sore or irritated throat
• Irritated eyes
• Skin irritation

People with asthma or heart or lung conditions may be more affected. Children and older adults can also be more sensitive to air pollution.

If you are working around ash or debris:

• Keep children and pets away from affected areas.
• Wear a properly fitted N95 or P100 respirator when working around ash.
• Wear gloves, long sleeves, long pants and closed-toe shoes.
• Do not sweep or use a regular vacuum on ash, which can send fine particles into the air.
• Wash your hands after working around ash and debris.
• Follow instructions from public health, fire and emergency management officials regarding cleanup and disposal.

If you develop severe or worsening trouble breathing, chest pain or other serious symptoms, seek medical attention.

If you are near any affected areas, consider replacing your home’s air filters and ensuring your home is properly sealed

For more information about protecting yourself from wildfire ash, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke and Ash.

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Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making District Board of Health. NNPH consists of five divisions: Administrative Health Services, Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Population Health. More information is available at NNPH.org.