A coordinated regional response under Unified Command between the Reno Fire Department (RFD) and Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District (TMFPD) has brought the Barron fire in south Reno to 60% containment as of Tuesday evening. The brush fire, first reported around 2 p.m. on July 1, spread south across Rattlesnake Mountain and burned approximately 340 acres before forward progress was halted.
Heavy precipitation and aggressive fire attack from regional agencies, including air support, stopped forward progress on this fire. No structures were lost and there are no reported injuries. Critical infrastructure was protected, including the South Meadows Water Treatment Plant, water tanks, and cellphone towers.
“We’d like to thank our partners at Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, along with regional agencies including the Reno Police Department, Nevada State Police, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, BLM, U.S. Forest Service, and many others, for coming together so quickly to help fight the flames this afternoon,” said Reno Fire Chief David Cochran. “This is a reminder that every season is fire season, and we encourage our residents to be fire safe.”
“Truly grateful for our partners with Reno Fire and all the agencies that came together today to help suppress the Barron Fire,” said TMFPD Fire Chief Richard Edwards. “Fighting fires of this size truly takes a team approach and I am proud of our continued regional cooperation. Also, as the Fourth of July is upon us, we want to remind our residents not to use fireworks, which are illegal in Washoe County and the leading cause of fire starts this time of year.”
Evacuations have been lifted for residents and businesses located east of the fire, from Longley Lane through Double R Boulevard, and south to Double Diamond and South Meadows Parkways.
Clean-up efforts are currently underway. Wildland resources will remain onsite overnight to monitor the area. Fire crews have been assigned to the fire through Thursday. Residents are advised to stay clear of the area to give crews room to work.
During peak activity, RFD deployed 14 suppression units along with battalion chiefs and logistical support. TMFPD deployed 18 suppression resources on the Barron Fire.
Aerial firefighting was suspended earlier in the day due to drone activity. This is a reminder to local drone operators not to fly drones over wildfire incidents as they put aircraft pilots and firefighters on the ground in harms way. In total, approximately 55 apparatus were deployed on the Barron Fire.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Residents are encouraged to follow RFD and TMFPD on social media for the latest updates. Use perimetermap.com for evacuation details and road closures.
