City of Rio Communities Fire & Rescue

08/25/2026

** FIRE ALERT**

There are 3 active fires in the Manzano Mountain's currently.
There is one on the west side (whiskey fire) that has been going since last week. That fire is active today due to the heat, but poses no risk to the community.
The other two fires (Cerro and Blanco) are on the east side of the mountain near 4th of July canyon. Smoke from those fires is also visible from Valencia County.
All fires have resources assigned, so please do not call 911 to report the smoke. The Valencia County Regional Emergency Communications Center is getting an overwhelming number of calls in reference to these fires.
We will update the community if there are any changes that affect public safety.

08/22/2026

08/20/2026

Rio Communities Fire Department was toned for a significant natural gas line break at the construction site of the new Maverik in Rio Communities.

Upon arrival, Rio Communities Fire crews quickly assessed the situation, secured the area, and requested additional resources. Valencia County Fire Department and Belen Fire & Rescue responded to assist with the incident.

City of Rio Communities Police Department assisted with traffic control and a safety perimeter

New Mexico Gas Company arrived on scene and was able to successfully mitigate the gas leak.

The scene has since been cleared, and the roadway is now OPEN.

Thank you all responding personnel for the outstanding teamwork and assistance!

08/19/2026

Rio Communities:

This Friday, come have free dinner and a movie!

We will have free backpack first aid kits!
RCPD will be providing free school supplies!

Let’s celebrate Rio Communities’ youngest citizens returning to school!

City of Rio Communities Fire & Rescue

City of Rio Communities Police Department

08/15/2026

Good afternoon,

This morning, Rio Communities Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the area of South Navajo Loop.

Crews were able to bring the fire under control and extinguish it without further incident. Thankfully, the residence was unoccupied at the time of the fire, and no neighboring homes were involved or threatened.

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Belen Fire & Rescue and Valencia County Fire Department for their outstanding teamwork and mutual aid response.

Great work by everyone involved, and thank you for your continued dedication to keeping our communities safe.

08/12/2026

08/12/2026

08/05/2026

Join the Rio Communities Fire Department – Now Hiring EMTs

Start Your Career with One of New Mexico’s Fastest Growing Fire Departments!

The Rio Communities Fire Department is seeking motivated, professional, and dedicated Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to join our team. If you’re looking for a department that is investing in its people, equipment, and future, we want to hear from you.

Position Highlights

* FLSA 106-hour work schedule
* 48/96 shift rotation – Work 48 hours on, then enjoy 96 hours off
* Supportive team environment
* Opportunities for career advancement

Why Rio Communities Fire Department?

As one of the area’s fast-growing fire departments, we’re committed to providing our personnel with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

What we offer:

* A new and continuously updated apparatus fleet
* Ongoing continuing education and training programs
* Advanced certifications and professional development opportunities
* Hands-on experience in a progressive department
* A culture focused on teamwork, professionalism, and service
* Endless opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career

If you’re passionate about serving your community and want to be part of a department that’s moving forward, now is the time to join the Rio Communities Fire Department.

Be part of the future. Serve with pride. Grow with Rio Communities Fire Department.

How to Apply

Please email your completed application and supporting documents to:

Chief Andrew Tabet
Email: [email protected]

For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact:

Phone: (505) 859-1647

08/02/2026

Good Morning.

Rio Communities Fire Department has been requested to assist with a wildland fire response in Cibola County, New Mexico.

Tender 1-7 has been deployed to the incident with Deputy Chief Gallegos assigned as part of the response.