Kellene StockwellChannel 2 News
Officials with the Sierra Fire Protection District says crews from across the region made great progress on the Caughlin Fire over the weekend.
Firefighters say the blaze is fully contained after growing to about 2,000 acres since breaking out around 12:30 a.m. Friday.
It started off of Sierra Pine Court. Crews say the heavy winds made it extremely hard for them to fight the fire, but the snowstorm on Sunday made fighting it easier.
They say 29 structures were destroyed. Five to seven others were partially damaged, and one has minor damage. Fire officials say the cause of the fire may be electrical, but they are still investigating.
Reno Fire Chief Michael Hernandez says the fire was spreading at a rate of up to 30 miles per hour because of gale-force winds.
Sierra Fire says crews were able to secure homes and power was restored to several thousands of NV Energy customers affected by the fire in the area.
Chief Hernandez said one firefighter suffered one and second-degree burns. The unidentified firefighter was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
A REMSA spokesman says 16 patients have been admitted to various area hospitals, mostly with smoke inhalation problems.
Crews reported a man died of a heart attack while trying to evacuate the area.
Governor Brian Sandoval declared a state of emergency which qualifies local governments for federal assistance associated with the Caughlin Ranch fire. Governor Sandoval is onsite with local officials and the state emergency operations center has been activated.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been and are being affected by this fire," Sandoval said. "Declaring a state of emergency ensures that every resource from the local, state and federal level is available to assist. I have asked the National Guard to be on alert and state resources are supporting Reno and Washoe County officials."
State officials are reportedly reviewing damages to determine how much government assistance will be needed.
Fire officials say workers were repairing hillsides and reseeding areas where vegetation was lost to prevent mudslides.
9,500 people were evacuated. Reno High School was used as an evacution center before closing Saturday afternoon. Displaced residents were able to return home around noon that day.
The Red Cross is available at 856-1000. They tell us they are in 'dire need' for monetary donations.
Contributions to the local Red Cross chapter can be earmarked for victims of the Caughlin Fire.
The 211 Call Center will continue to answer inquiries.
There is a tip line for after-fire recovery of homes: 775-745-5514.
For assistance from the State of Nevada regarding insurance, please call 687-0700.
The Regional Semi-final football game between Reed High School and Douglas High School that was scheduled to be played Friday was cancelled. The game has been rescheduled for Monday, November 21 at 7:00 p.m. at Reed High School.
Washoe County officials say Bartley Ranch Regional Park has been closed until further notice because of the damage in that area.
Save Mart stores are accepting donations for the American Red Cross through next Wednesday.
Those who want to help with blankets, food and household items are asked to drop them off at the Salvation Army's production warehouse, 2300 Valley Road., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Food donations need to be nonperishable canned food or packaged items.
(The Associated Press contributed to this report)
