Since most of the fires we have seen this fire season have been human-caused, it's important to remember that this can lead to legal consequences, whether it was accidental or intentional.
For example, the Cold Springs Fire was started when a truck towing a trailer caused sparks to shoot out along the roadway from dragging trailer chains. Although that may not have been intentional, the Washoe County District Attorney says it can still lead to charges.Â
Fires caused by trailer chains or perhaps by cigarette butts thrown out of windows and other fires of that nature could lead to negligence charges if investigators uncover credible evidence and determine the identity of the driver.
With an accidental fire start, one could still face civil liability charges from the D.A.'s office for the cost of resources used to knock the blaze down.Â
If intentional, the suspect could face more serious charges like arson, which is a felony.Â
Other charges could include misdemeanors--the punishment for those is anything from a fine to up to six months in jail.Â
It's important to remember target shooting in prohibited areas is a misdemeanor to begin with, even if it does not result in a fire.Â
District Attorney Chris Hicks says charges in individual fire cases vary depending on the intention, severity and scope of the fire.Â
He says they see a handful of fire prosecutions each year but it will take time to see how many cases they will have after this busy fire season.Â
Hicks says to use common sense and simply do not put yourself at risk for legal action, "For your own interest, you have to worry about criminal and civil liability. But for our society as a whole, recognize that we don't want to burn these wonderful areas for hunting, fishing, hiking, all these great things Nevada has to offer."
