Blackfeet Fire Rescue

03/30/2026

Five years after the day of the greenhouse fire, we were paged to another incident yesterday in nearly the same location. This time, only 1,000 acres burned.
Once again, we witnessed something just as powerful as the fire itself — the strength of our community and the unwavering support from the reservation. Multiple agencies and individuals came together quickly, working side by side to bring the grass fire under control.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who responded, assisted, and stood with us. It’s in these moments that the true spirit of our community shows. Thank you all for your continued support — it never goes unnoticed.
Thank you too East Glacier Fire, Del Bonita Fire, Cut Bank Fire, Babb/St. Mary’s Fire, Fire management, Glacier County DES, Blackfeet Law Enforcement, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office, Dispatchers from both agencies, Blackfeet Fish and Game, Blackfeet Animal Control and BCC Security/Maintenance.

03/25/2026

Over the next several days, parts of the state are expected to experience critical fire weather conditions, including increasing winds, warming temperatures, and dry fuels. These conditions can cause even small heat sources, such as embers, to quickly become fast-moving wildfires.

DNRC has identified an uptick in escaped debris burns and fires that were not fully extinguished over the past month. What may seem out can still hold heat and reignite, especially under windy conditions.

Take action today to prevent the next wildfire:

✔️Check recent burn sites. If you’ve burned debris recently, go back and make sure it is cold to the touch. Use the drown, stir, feel method by adding water, stirring ashes, and repeating until no heat remains.

✔️ Avoid burning when windy and avoid other actions that could cause a spark. Even a brief gust can carry embers into nearby grass or brush.

✔️ Clear around burn areas. Remove nearby fuels like dry grass, leaves, and wood debris.

✔️ Have water and tools ready. A shovel and water source should always be on hand when burning.

⚠️ Remember: If it’s too windy, it’s too risky! Consider postponing any burning until conditions improve.

We all play a role in preventing wildfires. Taking a few extra minutes to prepare today can prevent a wildfire tomorrow. For more information on safe fire practices and current fire restrictions, visit MTFireInfo.org

03/11/2026

02/05/2026

Even in the middle of winter, Montana is experiencing warm, dry, and windy conditions that increase wildfire risk across the state. Remember, the best time to prepare is before a wildfire occurs and practice prevention habits year round.

Here’s how you can help protect your community and support fire prevention efforts:
✔️ Avoid debris burning until conditions improve. Always check with local authorities first.
✔️ Prevent roadside fires by securing trailer chains, maintaining exhaust systems, and checking tires and brakes.
✔️ Carry basic fire tools like a shovel, water, or extinguisher when using equipment outdoors.
✔️ Fully extinguish campfires and backyard burns. Drown, stir, and feel for heat before leaving.
✔️ Report smoke or unattended fire immediately by calling 9-1-1.
✔️ Prepare your home and family now: create defensible space and sign up for local emergency alerts.

Winter wildfire is unusual, but together we can reduce the risk. Let’s all do our part to keep Montana safe.

🔗 Learn more about wildfire prevention and preparedness at mtfireinfo.org

01/31/2026

There were four fast-moving, wind-driven fires on US-2 tonight and the cooperation from all involved was greatly appreciated. Thank you too Cut bank volunteer fire depts, Del Bonita volunteer fire department, East Glacier Volunteer fire dept, Babb/St. Mary’s volunteer Fire Dept, Shelby fire Dept, fire management, BLES, GCSO, BNSF, Blackfeet Game Wardens, Hidden lake colony, Glacier County DES and the local residents that came to assist. Your dedication did not go unnoticed!

10/06/2025

Blackfeet Fire Rescue would like to acknowledge and thank Kim and Kelly Hoyt for their charitable contribution to our department. Your selfless support is essential to our continued service.

09/02/2025

Blackfeet Fire Rescue responded to a rapidly spreading grass fire this afternoon in the Boarding School area. We appreciate the assistance provided by all responding agencies. Thank you to Del Bonita Fire, Cut Bank Fire, East Glacier Fire, Fritz Ranch, Blackfeet Fire management, Chief Mountain hotshots, BLES, GCSO, Blackfeet Fish and Game, and Glacier County DES. 🚒 🔥

07/14/2025

********PUBLIC NOTICE********

Fireworks Prohibited After July 5th – Per Blackfeet Tribal Resolution 508-2024

The Blackfeet Tribal Business Council, in the interest of public safety and environmental protection, has enacted Resolution 508-2024, which strictly prohibits the use, possession, or ignition of fireworks after July 5th on the Blackfeet Reservation.

This regulation is especially important due to the increased fire danger during the dry summer months. Fireworks are a leading cause of accidental wildfires, which can quickly spread and threaten homes, grasslands, wildlife, and community infrastructure. Given current weather and environmental conditions, the risk of fire is elevated, and even a small spark can lead to devastating consequences.

Enforcement & Penalties

All individuals are expected to comply with this resolution. Anyone caught igniting or possessing fireworks after July 5th will face fines ranging from $100 to $500, based on the severity and frequency of the offense. violators will be held accountable under tribal law.

Community Responsibility

We ask all residents to take this regulation seriously. Fire prevention is a shared responsibility, and your cooperation is essential to protecting our land, wildlife, and one another. The use of fireworks outside the approved timeframe not only violates tribal law, but also puts lives and property at risk.

Let us all work together to ensure a safe and fire-free summer for our community.

For more information, please contact the Blackfeet Tribal Administration Office.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation.

07/08/2025

🔥 FIRE SAFETY ANNOUNCEMENT – North American Indian Days 🔥

As we approach North American Indian Days. we gather in celebration of our culture, heritage, and community, your safety is our highest priority. This event includes a diverse array of temporary structures including teepees, RV campers, and tents, which require special care and awareness when it comes to fire prevention.

To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, please read and follow the fire safety tips below:

✅ GENERAL FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINES
🔥 Keep Fires in Designated Areas:
Campfires, fire pits, or ceremonial fires must only be lit in designated fire zones. use common judgment when using open flame or stoves.

🧯 Always Have Fire-Extinguishing Tools Nearby:
Keep a working fire extinguisher, water bucket, or hose within reach of your teepee, RV, or tent at all times.

🪵 Do Not Leave Fires Unattended:
Whether cooking, using lanterns, or enjoying a fire, never walk away without fully extinguishing it.

🛖 TEEPEE SAFETY TIPS
Keep all flammable materials such as bedding, rugs, and personal items away from open flames.

Avoid burning candles inside teepees unless properly contained and monitored.

If using a central fire or stove inside a teepee (for cultural or heating purposes), it must have proper ventilation and should be attended at all times.

🚐 RV CAMPER SAFETY TIPS
Inspect propane tanks and gas lines for leaks before use. Turn off all fuel sources when leaving the RV or going to sleep.

Do not store extra fuel or flammable liquids inside the RV.

Install and check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.

⛺ TENT SAFETY TIPS
Keep open flames and cooking devices at least 10 feet away from tents.

Never use fuel-burning heaters or lanterns inside a tent.

Only use battery-powered lights or lanterns inside tents.

⚠️ IN CASE OF FIRE
Alert others around you immediately and evacuate the area safely.

Call 911 or 406-338-4000 for fire services if needed.

Notify event security as soon as possible.

If safe to do so, use a fire extinguisher or water to contain small fires.

REMEMBER: Fire spreads quickly being prepared and cautious can save lives.

We’ve already experienced an RV fire incident at the Campgrounds. Thankfully, no one was harmed, but it serves as a serious reminder of how quickly things can go wrong. Your vigilance and respect for fire safety help protect everyone, our families, our elders, and the publics safety.

Let’s work together to keep North American Indian Days safe for all.

07/04/2025

As we gather to celebrate Independence Day, Blackfeet Fire Rescue proudly honors the spirit of community, resilience, and unity. We are committed to protecting the lives, land, and heritage of the Blackfeet Nation every day of the year.

On this 4th of July, we encourage everyone to celebrate safely and responsibly. Please be mindful of firework use, observe all safety regulations, and look out for your neighbors.

From our crew to your family—have a safe and joyful Fourth of July.

We are proud to serve. We are proud to protect.
—Blackfeet Fire Rescue

07/03/2025

July 3, 2025 – 8:00 AM State Drought Index Change
According to the Montana Drought Index, we’re officially in Severe Drought status. Translation? The ground is thirstier than your uncle, dancing at grand entry for the first time since the 70’s. Plum greasy and dusty ayee!

That means even the tiniest spark yes, even the one from that “totally safe” firecracker your cousin swears he got on sale can turn into a fast-moving fire. So if you’re lighting things up today, keep water nearby: hose, bucket, or that cooler everyone pretends is just full of Gatorade.

Let’s keep the fireworks in the sky, not in the neighbor’s yard or worse, it give the uncles something new to tease you about for the rest of the year.

Stay safe, be smart, and don’t make the kind of fire that ends up on Facebook News.

Nitsíkiiyis, nitsíka’si na’itsí!
Have a good day and Stay safe!

Blackfeet Fire Rescue.

07/02/2025

National Wildland Firefighter Day – Honoring a Proud Legacy in Blackfeet Country

Today marks National Wildland Firefighter Day, a day that may go unnoticed by some, but for those of us in the fire service, and especially here in Blackfeet Country, it carries deep meaning.

For many members of our community, wildland firefighting wasn’t just a job it was a rite of passage, a first step into a lifelong commitment to public service and protecting the land. In Browning and across the Blackfeet Reservation, countless men and women began their professional lives fighting wildfires, often as young adults, gaining not only income but discipline, strength, and a sense of purpose.

From the 1930s through the 2000s, the Blackfeet Nation earned a national reputation for its outstanding contributions to wildland fire suppression. Our crews were known for their reliability, resilience, and strong work ethic. Type 2 hand crews, Camp Crews, Type 1 Hotshot Crews, and Initial Attack (IA) Crews from Blackfeet Country traveled across the West and beyond, answering the call whenever the forests burned. The words “Blackfeet Crew” became synonymous with skill, grit, and heart.

Fighting fire is more than just a job it’s a tradition rooted in respect for the land and for each other. The “Spirit of Fire” lives on in our people. It lives in the stories of the old firefighter who worked on fires throughout Montana and the US. It lives in the photos and worn gear of family members who traveled on national fire assignments. It lives in our young people who continue to take up the torch, now often trained through tribal and interagency partnerships that build on decades of expertise.

While the tools and tactics have evolved, the dedication remains the same. Blackfeet firefighters continue to serve with distinction, whether on engines, or non Blackfeet Agency affiliated crews as many do, or in overhead command positions. They represent our community with honor, carrying forward a legacy built on generations of courage and commitment.

As we reflect today, let us honor those who came before us, recognize those who are still on the line, and inspire the next generation to rise and serve with the same fire in their hearts. Wildland firefighting is not just a career path it’s part of who we are.

To all wildland firefighters past, present, and future we thank you. And to the crews and departments who have carried the torch of this proud tradition Blackfeet Fire Rescue, Blackfeet Fire Management, Chief Mountain Interagency Hotshots, East Glacier Volunteer Fire Department, Babb/St. Mary Volunteer Fire Department, Del Bonita Rural Fire Department, and Heart Butte Volunteer Fire Department your dedication, sacrifice, and service are deeply honored. The legacy of the Blackfeet Nation in wildland fire lives on through our continued commitment to protecting our lands, our people, and our future.

Blackfeet Fire Rescue
Billy Sharp, Deputy Assistant Fire Chief
| Wildland Fire | Firefighter | EMT | PIO-Social Media Coordinator