Rye Fire Protection District

06/21/2026

🚫 FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN THE GREENHORN VALLEY 🚫

As we approach the Independence Day holiday, Rye Fire Protection District would like to remind residents and visitors that Colorado law prohibits the possession and use of most fireworks.

Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 24-33.5-2002, it is unlawful to possess or discharge fireworks other than those specifically classified as “permissible fireworks.” Firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, mortars, aerial shells, and any fireworks that explode, fly through the air, or leave the ground are illegal in Colorado. (Justia Law)

In the Greenhorn Valley, where dry vegetation, timber, and rapidly changing weather conditions create significant wildfire risk, even legal fireworks can quickly become a threat to lives, homes, livestock, and natural resources.

Rye Fire Protection District strongly encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly and attend professional fireworks displays rather than using personal fireworks.

One spark can change a community forever. Help us keep the Greenhorn Valley safe this Fourth of July.

Ross Gallegos
Fire Chief
Rye Fire Protection District

06/20/2026

Community Information Notice

In light of a very busy week for Pueblo County and the Rye Fire Protection District, we would like to share a valuable resource that some residents may not be aware of.

Rye Fire Protection District encourages all residents of the Greenhorn Valley and surrounding areas to register for the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Notification System.

This system provides critical emergency notifications directly to your phone, including information about wildfires, evacuations, severe weather, road closures, and other incidents that may impact public safety.

To register, visit:

https://www.sheriff.co.pueblo.co.us/441/Emergency-Alerts

Rye Fire Protection District remains committed to keeping our community informed and providing timely updates during emergencies whenever operational needs, incident conditions, and information accuracy allow. While we strive to communicate information through social media, public information releases, and other available channels, some emergencies and rapidly evolving situations may not allow for immediate notification. The Pueblo County Emergency Notification System serves as another important tool to help keep our community safe, informed, and prepared during emergency incidents.

We encourage all residents, property owners, and business owners within our district to take a few minutes to register and verify that their contact information is current.

Prepared communities are safer communities, and staying informed is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and property.

Respectfully,

Ross Gallegos
Fire Chief
Rye Fire Protection District

“Committed to Service, Safety, and Community”

Stay informed page talks about emergency alerts and how to sign up for them

06/20/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE

Many residents in the Greenhorn Valley may have heard two loud explosions this evening. These explosions were the result of a special operation conducted by the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Rye Fire Protection District.

The operation was carried out in a safe, controlled environment under the supervision of trained personnel. The location and timing of the operation were determined by operational necessity and with public safety as the highest priority.

There is no threat to the community, and no further action is required by residents.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Rye Fire Protection District

06/17/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hidden Creek Fire Final Update

June 17, 2026 | 1300 Hours

The Hidden Creek Fire, located approximately one-half mile north of Table Mountain, remains at 4 acres and is considered 95% contained. Due to current weather conditions, the fire will be placed into monitor status through the weekend.

As of 1300 hours today, firefighters completed construction of a fire line around the entire perimeter of the fire and addressed remaining hot spots within the incident area. No structures were threatened, and no firefighter or civilian injuries were reported during the incident.

All assigned resources were released from the scene by 1400 hours. Rye Fire Protection District personnel will continue to monitor the fire area through the weekend and will respond to any observed fire activity or hot spots as needed.

Rye Fire Protection District extends its sincere appreciation to all assisting agencies, cooperators, and community members for their support throughout this incident. The collective efforts of firefighters, emergency responders, aviation resources, and community partners contributed significantly to the successful containment of the Hidden Creek Fire.

This will be the final scheduled update regarding the Hidden Creek Fire.

06/17/2026

Hidden Creek Fire Morning Update

June 17, 2026 | Morning Update

Containment lines on the Hidden Creek Fire held well through the night with no significant fire growth observed. Fire crews are actively working this morning to reinforce containment lines and extinguish remaining hot spots located near the fire perimeter.

Firefighters will continue suppression and mop-up operations throughout the day to further strengthen containment and reduce the potential for rekindling.

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of the agencies, crews, and community partners supporting this incident, including:

* Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC)
* Helitack Crews and Aviation Resources
* TAVA Hand Crew
* Carson Hotshots
* Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Division
* Edison Fire Protection District
* Greenhorn Valley residents
* Rye Elementary/PPL
* Colorado City Metropolitan District

As well as the many additional personnel and organizations assisting behind the scenes whose contributions are equally valued.

Their professionalism, dedication, and teamwork have been instrumental in the successful progress made on this incident.

Additional updates will be provided as conditions warrant.

06/17/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hidden Creek Fire Update�1900 Hours
As of 1900 hours, the Hidden Creek Fire is estimated to be 40-45% contained. Fire crews reported no fire growth throughout the day, and containment efforts continue to show positive progress.
Resources remained engaged on the incident throughout the day, strengthening containment lines and addressing remaining areas of concern. Firefighters will continue to monitor the fire overnight and will resume active suppression and containment operations tomorrow morning.
At this time, there are no immediate threats to public safety. The public is encouraged to avoid the area and remain alert for fire personnel and equipment operating on local roadways.
Additional updates will be provided as conditions warrant.

06/16/2026

Hidden Creek Fire Update
June 16, 2026 | 0700 Hours

The Hidden Creek Fire, located approximately one-half mile north of Table Mountain, is currently estimated at 4 acres and remains 0% contained. Fire crews reported no significant growth overnight.

State and local firefighting resources will be working in the area beginning at 0900 hours today. Fire suppression efforts will continue throughout the day as crews work to strengthen containment lines and monitor fire activity.

At this time, there are no immediate public safety concerns. The public is encouraged to avoid the area and allow emergency personnel to operate safely.

Additional updates will be provided as conditions change.

Public Information Officer
Hidden Creek Fire

04/23/2026

Please keep our Fire Crews in your prayers! Today we have Deployed crews to aid the City of Pueblo and Southern El Paso County. Absolutely No Burning !

04/07/2026

UPDATE AS OF 4/20/26 -- After a thorough investigation, Pueblo County Sheriff's Detectives have determined that Terry Johnson left his home willingly and is no longer considered missing. Thank you to everyone who provided tips and information on his whereabouts.

MISSING PERSON ALERT
We are seeking assistance in locating a missing and at-risk adult. Terry Johnson, 68, was last seen around 9 p.m. Sunday, April 5, at his home in Rye.
Terry is a white male, 5-foot-6-inches tall and about 125 pounds. He has long brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a black and red flannel shirt with a Harley Davidson logo on the back.
If you have seen him, please call our office at (719) 583-6250.
Rye Fire Protection District