Chimney Fire: An After-Action Review
Cabernet Watch | Community Safety Update
Chimney Fire: An After-Action Review from a Cabernet Highlands Resident
First and foremost, we extend our sincere gratitude to the firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency dispatchers, and support personnel who worked through the night to protect lives, homes, and property during the Chimney Fire.
On the evening of June 14, residents across northern Washoe County closely monitored the Chimney Fire near Sun Valley.
For many in Cabernet Highlands, the fire served as an important reminder that wildfire season is here and that conditions can change quickly.
Initial reports indicated the fire started around 7:00 p.m. Approximately one hour later, evacuation orders were issued for several nearby zones, while additional areas were placed under evacuation warnings.
Although Cabernet Highlands was not included in any evacuation zone, the nearest warning area was within approximately one mile of our community, and prevailing winds were pushing the fire toward Golden Valley.
Like many residents, we began preparing in case conditions changed.
What We Did
As the situation developed, our household took several simple preparedness steps:
- Monitored official updates through the Watch Duty app
- Tracked evacuation zones and fire progress
- Gathered and loaded our go bags into the car
- Reviewed additional items we would take if evacuation became necessary
- Contacted nearby friends and neighbors so they could begin preparing as well
- Stayed informed and ready to leave if evacuation orders expanded
The Chimney Fire served as a reminder that wildfire conditions can change rapidly across northern Washoe County.
At approximately 9:30 p.m., incident command reported that forward progress of the fire had been halted.
Thankfully, evacuation orders did not extend into Cabernet Highlands, and firefighters successfully slowed the fire before conditions worsened.
Lessons Learned
Every emergency provides an opportunity to learn.
Our family's after-action review identified several key takeaways:
Prepare Early
Waiting until an evacuation order is issued may leave little time to act. Gathering essential items while conditions are still stable reduces stress and allows for better decision-making.
Know the Difference Between an Evacuation Warning and an Evacuation Order
An evacuation warning means conditions could change quickly, and residents should prepare to leave.
An evacuation order means it is time to leave immediately.
Keep Go Bags Ready
A basic go bag should include:
- Medications and medical equipment
- Important documents
- Phone chargers and power banks
- Flashlights and batteries
- Basic toiletries and clothing
- Pet supplies
- Water and snacks
Stay Informed Through Trusted Sources
During fast-moving incidents, information changes quickly. Rely on official notifications from local emergency agencies and trusted applications such as Watch Duty.
Watch Duty provides real-time wildfire information, evacuation updates, maps, and incident details from verified emergency sources.
Check on Neighbors
A quick phone call or text message can make a significant difference, especially for older adults, people living alone, or neighbors with mobility challenges.
Community Observation: Temporary Reduction in Evacuation Options
Our after-action review identified an important temporary change affecting Cabernet Highlands.
Due to ongoing construction, Buck Drive is currently closed and is expected to remain closed until August.
At this time, the closure eliminates a secondary access point for both residents and emergency vehicles. As a result, Rutherford Drive and Beckwourth Drive currently serve as the community's primary vehicle evacuation route.
During the Chimney Fire, evacuation orders came within approximately one mile of Cabernet Highlands. Although our community was never placed under a warning or evacuation order, the incident highlighted the importance of understanding how temporary road closures can affect emergency preparedness.
Several questions remain under review:
- How would traffic be managed if a rapid evacuation became necessary?
- What contingency plans exist if Rutherford Drive becomes congested?
- How will emergency responders access the community if conditions change?
Cabernet Highlands representatives have requested that the Reno Fire Department conduct an inspection and review current evacuation considerations during the construction period.
Take Action Today
Cabernet Watch Preparedness Reminder
Wildfire preparedness is not something to think about after an evacuation order is issued.
Take a few minutes this week to:
- Download the Watch Duty app from the Apple App Store or Google Play and enable notifications for Washoe County.
- Build or refresh your go bags
- Review evacuation routes from your neighborhood
- Create a family communication plan
- Ensure your vehicle has at least a half tank of fuel
- Identify emergency pedestrian access gates in case traffic becomes gridlocked
Preparedness is not about expecting the worst. It is about being ready so that, if the unexpected happens, you can focus on keeping yourself, your family, and your neighbors safe.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay connected.
— Cabernet Watch
