Reno fire team 'punched in the mouth' in the first minute of Hawk Fire
Reno Gazette Journal
Last updated: September 16, 2026
This article details the experiences of a Reno Fire Captain during the Hawk Fire, immediately following a long deployment on the Bug Fire. It highlights the rapid escalation of the Hawk Fire and the challenging conditions faced by the fire team.
- The fire captain described the Hawk Fire as intensely challenging from the outset, stating the team was "punched in the mouth" within the first minute.
- This immediate intensity contrasted sharply with the previous 13 days spent on the Bug Fire, suggesting a significant difference in fire behavior and operational demands.
- The captain sustained burn injuries while on duty during the Hawk Fire.
- The article focuses on the direct account of the fire captain's experience and the immediate, impactful nature of the Hawk Fire incident.
- The narrative emphasizes the swift and aggressive nature of the fire, leading to on-duty injuries.
