Kirtland AFB Fire & Emergency Services

06/09/2026

Yesterday, emergency crews responded to a reported gas leak at the old CDC building, where contractors inadvertently struck a gas main line during work operations. E-26 arrived on scene to investigate, while Battalion 2 established command. Additional units, including Battalion 1, E-22, Haz-Mat 44, and Rescue 4, provided support. Security Forces assisted with traffic control. E-26 confirmed the breach of the gas line, and ASRC personnel successfully shut off the main line. The scene was subsequently turned over to the contractors, with no injuries reported.

06/05/2026

Crews from Kirtland Fire & EMS responded to a smoke report at the National Guard building. Engine 26 and Battalion 2 arrived on scene, and Chief 2 took command of the incident. The occupant did an excellent job of sounding the alarm, evacuating the building, and directing responding personnel. Engine 26 investigated the cause, and Battalion 2 supported operations. Engine 25 established a water supply, and Battalion 1 oversaw safety protocols. AAS was prepared to handle any medical emergencies. The issue was determined to be a defective light ballast. This incident emphasizes the importance of regular evacuation drills. Kirtland Fire & EMS is committed to serving and protecting the community.

06/03/2026

06/03/2026

Last week, crews from Kirtland AFB Fire & Emergency Services successfully completed our annual Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) live-fire training.

This critical training allows firefighters to sharpen the specialized skills required to respond to aircraft emergencies, including proper aircraft approach techniques, ARFF vehicle positioning, agent application, and fire suppression tactics. Through realistic, hands-on scenarios, our personnel continuously train to ensure they are prepared to respond effectively when an actual emergency occurs.

ARFF operations require a unique skill set, and repetitive training is essential to maintaining proficiency and mission readiness. By training in a controlled live-fire environment, our firefighters gain valuable experience that cannot be replicated in the classroom alone.

Kirtland AFB is fortunate to have access to one of only a handful of Air Force aircraft fire training simulators, providing our personnel with a world-class training platform to develop and maintain these critical lifesaving skills.

We are proud of the dedication and professionalism our firefighters demonstrate each day as they train to protect the personnel, aircraft, and mission of Kirtland Air Force Base.

🚒✈️🔥

06/03/2026

Kirtland AFB Fire & Emergency Services would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the active duty service members who stepped up to support our department during a critical staffing shortage.

These dedicated Airmen joined our team to help maintain mission readiness and provide uninterrupted emergency services while we worked to hire, onboard, and train new firefighters. Their professionalism, commitment, and willingness to serve made a significant impact on our department and the community we protect.

This deployment marked a historic milestone, as it has been more than 25 years since active duty personnel have played a direct role in the Kirtland Fire & Emergency Services mission. During their time with us, many of these service members earned valuable certifications, including Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Wildland Firefighter, and Emergency Vehicle Operator qualifications, further enhancing their skills and readiness.

In recognition of their outstanding service and contributions, each member was presented with a Department Challenge Coin.

Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and support of Kirtland AFB Fire & Emergency Services. We would like to thank MSgt. Gastel for your contributions have strengthened our team, enhanced our mission, and will leave a lasting legacy within our department.

Congratulations, and thank you for your service!

05/07/2026

Last week, crews completed a live fire training exercise to sharpen and maintain the critical skills needed for real-world emergencies.

Training like this allows our firefighters to practice coordinated fireground operations, strengthen teamwork, and ensure we are prepared to provide the highest level of service to our community when true emergencies occur.

We are proud of the professionalism, dedication, and commitment our personnel continue to demonstrate through ongoing training and readiness. Photo credit/video: KAFES Public Affairs

05/05/2026

Crew members came together on Sunday to celebrate a promotion dinner. Congratulations to Master Sergeant Gastel, currently stationed at Kirtland, who brings great value. Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion.

04/16/2026

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Katelyn Salazar, a lead dispatcher, on winning the Civilian CAT I (Non Supervisor) Quarterly award. Katelyn consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication and a strong willingness to assist the department. This recognition is a testament to her outstanding commitment.

04/15/2026

🚨📞 Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week! 📞🚨

This week, we proudly recognize the unseen heroes behind every emergency response — our dedicated fire dispatchers. These professionals are the calm voice in chaos, the first line of support for our crews, and the critical link that keeps our operations running safely and efficiently 24/7.

From coordinating complex incidents to providing lifesaving instructions over the phone, their work often goes unnoticed — but it is never unappreciated.

We want to extend our sincere gratitude to the outstanding members of our dispatch team:

• Katelyn Salazar
• Erik Roybal
• Warecus Blair
• Tyler Smith
• Belvina Harrison
• Jackson Smith
• Rebecca Brown

Your professionalism, composure, and commitment to serving our community and supporting our firefighters does not go unnoticed. Because of you, we are able to respond faster, operate safer, and better serve those in need.

Thank you for everything you do — today and every day.

🔥 We couldn’t do this job without you. 🔥