GRBR Safety Practices

COVID-19: GRBR will comply with all CDC, federal and state guidelines during the time of the event.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
  • Please stay home to ensure the safety of those around you if you have tested positive for COVID-19, are waiting for COVID-19 test results, have COVID-19 symptoms, or if you have had close contact with a person who has tested positive for or who has symptoms of COVID-19.
  • We recommend wearing a mask to protect yourself and others and stop the spread of COVID-19.
  • If applicable, get a COVID-19 vaccine before attending the event.
  • Clean your hands often, either with soap and water for 20 seconds or a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Monitor your health daily.

      Fire Safety: Due to drier conditions, The Great Reno Balloon Race is taking extra precautions with fire safety practices. The crews have gone through extensive fire extinguisher training and certification through ABC Fire, and extra fire extinguishers are being required for pilots and crew. Additionally, an extra tarp under the basket is also being required to mitigate the possibility of fires.

      Dry Field: The Great Reno Balloon Race is working to water the field, pre-event, each night. The idea is to water the field just enough to add some moisture back into the pasture, while still maintaining a level of comfort, so the public is not walking in the mud.

      No Smoking: Smoking is not permitted on the field. This includes E-cigarettes. Not only is it harmful to those around you, but also due to drought conditions and propane on the field is extremely dangerous.

      No Drones: Due to FAA safety regulations, drones cannot be flying in our around the event. They are distracting to the pilots who are navigating changeable weather patterns. If you are caught flying a drone at or around the event, there will be serious consequences. 

      No Pets: We all love our furry friends, but for their safety please leave them at home. Pets are prohibited from the park during the event and you will be asked to leave if they are with you. Service animals are permitted in a designated tent where you may watch the show. This does not include emotional support animals. 

      Footwear: The event is held in a pasture with some small divots. We advise wearing comfortable tennis shoes to protect your feet and ankles while walking the field. 

      Field Closure: With the exception of scheduled public events, The Great Reno Balloon Race and the Cyclocross competition, the off-leash and multi-use pasture at Rancho San Rafael Park is closed to the public. Closure of the pasture comes as a result of a drought-diminished Truckee River – the park’s only source of irrigation water, which is temporarily cut off.

      No Lasers: Lasers are not permitted at the event. Lasers can be harmful to the pilots’ eyesight during early morning flights, which can be extremely dangerous.