VIDEO: As we head into cooler temperatures the Reno Fire Department (RFD) said it battled nearly 30 homeless campfires this year alone.
According to Battalion Chief Bill Erlach, during the same time last year RFD responded to only 11 calls. He said these fires can spread quickly to other camps, brushes, and nearby businesses.
“Despite being out of the heat and dryness of the summer, winter time seems to be our worst fires, so that is one of our concerns there.” He continued, “Along with that a lot of these camps are located right next to each other and we had instances where the fire would extend to one camp over to the next camp, and unfortunately that’s resulted in injuries and even death last year.”
RFD said the fires are caused by propane tanks, butane burners, and wood fires which are used to keep warm and for cooking. Battalion Chief Erlach said 80% of their calls happen along the Truckee River, which can delay their response time.