LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Nevada Task Force 1 was deployed Sunday under a state activation to assist with response and recovery efforts for the growing Hawk Fire in Washoe County.
The team deployed as a "mission-ready package" to conduct canine-assisted searches, including two live-find dogs and four human-remains detection dogs. The team is expected to begin searches Monday morning and continue its work throughout the week.
Clark County Deputy Fire Chief Brian O'Neal said the team is one of 28 federal Urban Search and Rescue teams nationwide. CCFD sponsors the team, which includes members from fire departments across the Las Vegas valley, as well as doctors and structural engineers from the community.
The Hawk Fire began Saturday and has grown to more than 15,000 acres with no containment, according to officials. Multiple structures have been damaged or destroyed, and thousands of people have been forced to evacuate.
In a press conference Sunday, officials said the fire was human-caused.
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"We wish safe travels for this multiagency team and that their work assists the community in recovering from this devastating fire," O'Neal said.
