Bigfork Firefighters IAFF L-5289

04/13/2026

The Bigfork Fire Department is debating its budget priorities after the implementation of a new state law that will impact mill levy revenue in the coming years.
https://bigforkeagle.com/news/2026/apr/08/fire-district-weighs-budget-priorities-in-wake-of-state-levy-changes/

02/20/2026

02/13/2026

On December 1, 2024, tragedy struck near Bigfork when a drunk driver crossed the center line and caused a head-on crash that severely injured Teressa Brandt, claiming the life of her fiancé Wyatt and their unborn child. Teressa, and her young daughter survived the crash but suffered severe injuries.
The crash was investigated by Trooper Jessica Kehl while her husband, Paramedic Sean Kehl with the Bigfork Fire Department, provided emergency care on scene.
In the 439 days since that night, Teressa has faced an incredible road to recovery: spending months in hospitals, intensive care units, and rehabilitation centers across Montana and Washington. She has undergone multiple surgeries, fought through complications, and shown unwavering strength and determination at every turn.
Now, after a long and courageous journey, Teressa has finally returned home to the same small town where both Trooper Jessica Kehl and her husband, Firefighter/Medic Sean Kehl, live and serve. Today, Trooper Kehl and her husband joined the Marion Fire Department in escorting Teressa home as she took this powerful next step in her recovery.
The Montana Highway Patrol stands with Teressa and her family, and with all victims of impaired driving. Her story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the strength of community.
Welcome home, Teressa. 💙

02/01/2026

Today B-Shift Engine 32 responded automatic aid to a structure fire in Ferndale. The fire was brought under control by Ferndale VFD shortly before E32 arrived.

01/31/2026

Today firefighters from B-Shift on Ladder 31 and Engine 32 responded to an electrical fire in an apartment above a shopping center in downtown. On arrival E32 reported a 2 story mixed occupancy with nothing showing. E32 established a water supply and pulled an 1 3/4” hose line to building, simultaneously L31 deployed the aerial. Firefighters found a sparking breaker panel inside. Power was shut off to the building, and firefighters remained on scene to ensure there was no fire extension from the panel. Once the scene was deemed safe the scene was turned back over to the homeowner.

01/22/2026

Today A-Shift Engine 32 responded to a structure fire along with Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department. E32 arrived first on scene to a small detached garage fully involved with multiple explosions and two 5th wheel RVs on fire as well. E32s crew pulled two 1 3/4 hose lines to either side of the structure to protect exposures. The fire was brought under control 15 minutes after arrival.

01/11/2026

The numbers are in, and 2025 was our busiest year yet!

Bigfork Fire responded to 1,332 calls last year, an average of almost 4 calls per day. Of the total, 1,070 calls, or 80%, were for medical emergencies - heart attacks, strokes, illnesses, and traumatic injuries including motor vehicle accidents. The other 20% included fires and other related emergencies. These call statistics do not include community events such as school safety training, parades, downtown celebrations, tours, and community education classes.

While 4 calls a day may not seem like much, consider this:

An average call can take from 2-4 hours depending upon complexity, distance, weather, and hospital transport time.

For every call, add another 1-2 hours to complete reports, clean and restock equipment, wash gear, and refuel for the next emergency.

We must train for a variety of emergencies to remain proficient every day. Training includes structure fires, wildland fires,, hazardous materials, medical scenarios, communications, motor vehicle extrication, rope rescue, swift water rescue, ice rescue, ladder operations, water tender operations, and firefighter safety.

In between, we work on our physical and mental fitness and squeeze in meals and some sleep time.

So our 4 on-duty firefighters are never at a loss for something to do. They work hard everyday for you - competently serving our community with dedication and compassion.

We are proud to serve the growing needs of Bigfork and the surrounding area!

01/11/2026

Bigfork Firefighters teamed up with Ferndale and Creston Volunteer Fire Departments for an ice rescue training exercise. These trainings are essential for keeping our community safe.

11/03/2025

Last week Bigfork Fire Department hosted a multi-Company Operstions training focusing on multi-story building fires. Kalispell and Evergreen Fire Departments attended. Working together to strengthen and improve emergency response for our communities.

10/13/2025

Last night C-shift responded to a Motor Vehicle Accident with entrapment. Upon arrival units found a single vehicle rollover with heavy damage with one person trapped. The patient was extricated within 15 minutes of arrival and transported to the hospital, receiving paramedic level care from the time crews arrived.
Every shift is now operating with 4 personnel each, made possible by the recent voter approved staffing levy. This allowed our crews to effectively treat the patient while simultaneously using rescue tools to free them from the vehicle!
THANK YOU for Prioritizing the safety of the citizens and firefighters of Bigfork!

10/12/2025