Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Looks Forward to Assisting at Final Reno Air Races

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office will assist at the Reno National Championship Air Races for the final time this week.

The WCSO Search & Rescue Team, Specialized Vehicle Unit, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office HASTY Team and Community Emergency Response Team will all be assisting once again at the event with security, medical needs, transport and pylon duties.

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division units have performed these duties at the Reno Air Races for over 20 years and are excited to continue partnering with this incredible event.

“Since 1964, the Reno National Championship Air Races has shined as a one-of-a-kind event that will be remembered forever.”  Sheriff Darin Balaam said.  “The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office will look back upon the Air Races with fond memories and we look forward to helping make the 2023 event the best ever.”

Some safety tips if you plan on enjoying the 2023 Air Races:

• Secure Your Personal Belongings: Do not leave valuables in your vehicle; consider leaving them at home. Make sure anything important in the vehicle is hidden. Be sure to lock your vehicle.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Do not leave your children or food/drinks unattended.  Criminals often use the distraction of a large crowd to commit crimes.
• Safety Plan: In the event of separation, emergency and/or your phone battery dies or loses service, have a regroup plan in place for your family/group with a designated location to meet.  Ensure all minors in your party know or have your phone number/emergency contact information.  Make sure you have a current photo of your children before arriving at the event. 
• Plan for the Weather: The weather is expected to be warm and dry. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Don’t forget sunscreen.
• No drones or lasers: As much fun is it is to fly a drone, even the smallest of crafts can bring a plane down.  Pointing lasers at an aircraft is a federal crime that can come with a fine of over $10,000.

The Reno National Championship Air Races will take to the Northern Nevada skies for the final time September 13-17, 2023, at the Reno-Stead Airport.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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