Grand Junction Fire Department

05/29/2026

At approximately 12:15 p.m., and were dispatched to the Colorado River for reports of a child clinging to a branch above the water without a personal flotation device and in danger of falling into the river.
When first responders arrived, they learned that a quick-acting passerby had successfully pulled the child to safety before crews arrived on scene.
Although the incident ended safely, the Station 1 crew treated the call as an important training opportunity. After returning to the station, firefighters immediately began reviewing potential rescue operations that may have been necessary had conditions worsened. Crews sharpened their rope rescue skills and discussed detailed rescue strategies applicable to incidents involving swift water and difficult river access.
Calls like this are an important reminder of the unpredictable dangers rivers can present, especially during periods of high water flow. In addition to strong currents, numerous hazards can exist beneath the water's surface, including debris, entanglement hazards, sudden drop-offs, and submerged obstacles that may not be visible from shore.
encourages everyone recreating near the water to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device, supervise children near waterways, and use extreme caution around fast-moving currents.

05/29/2026

**Child Safe After Quick Actions of Bystanders**
Grand Junction, CO - On May 29, 2026, at approximately 12:15 p.m., dispatchers with the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received a call about a child holding onto a tree near the edge of a cliff in the 300 block of Cedar Street.
First responders with the Grand Junction Police Department and the Grand Junction Fire Department quickly responded and learned the child had been playing in the area before slipping off the edge above the Colorado River. The reporting party and a passerby successfully pulled the child to safety. First responders evaluated the child on scene before safely reuniting the child with a parent.
The Grand Junction Police Department and Grand Junction Fire Department are extremely grateful for the quick actions of the individuals who pulled the child to safety.

**Child Safe After Quick Actions of Bystanders**

Grand Junction, CO - On May 29, 2026, at approximately 12:15 p.m., dispatchers with the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received a call about a child holding onto a tree near the edge of a cliff in the 300 block of Cedar Street.

First responders with the Grand Junction Police Department and the Grand Junction Fire Department quickly responded and learned the child had been playing in the area before slipping off the edge above the Colorado River. The reporting party and a passerby successfully pulled the child to safety. First responders evaluated the child on scene before safely reuniting the child with a parent.

The Grand Junction Police Department and Grand Junction Fire Department are extremely grateful for the quick actions of the individuals who pulled the child to safety.

05/29/2026

While the rest of the department was tied up on a fire, Engine 2 was dispatched to an unusual emergency: a duckling trapped in a storm drain. But upon arrival, crews discovered not one, but NINE ducklings trapped deep inside the drain.
With limited space inside the drain, one firefighter and a roof ladder were the only things that fit. Equipped with a 4-gas monitor for safety, Firefighter Paramedic Lanie Osborne carefully climbed down and rescued all nine ducklings before reuniting them with their very relieved mother… and three additional ducklings waiting nearby. 🦆
One of the best moments came over the radio:
“Dispatch, Engine 2… all 9 ducklings have been reunited with their mother.”
Dispatch replied, “Copy that, thank you.”
We’re pretty sure everyone could hear the smile through the radio. ☺️
A helpful bystander even donated a cross-body carrier to help with the rescue, saving firefighters from making multiple trips in and out of the drain. Safe to say it may now be officially added to the bunker gear go-bag.
Just add “Confined Space Duckling Retrieval Specialist” to the résumé. 😉🤣
These little rescues may seem small, but they’re just another example of how firefighters are always ready to help, no matter how big or small the call.

05/27/2026

At approximately 7:30 p.m., responded to Intermountain St. Mary's Regional Hospital. following reports of smoke on the third floor. Firefighters worked with hospital staff to locate the source, which was determined to be an overheated motor in a cooling unit that produced thick black smoke. Crews confirmed there was no active fire and ventilated the affected area. No injuries were reported.

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness will never be forgotten.
As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, let us remember that our freedom has come at a great cost. The Grand Junction Fire Department stands in solemn remembrance and gratitude for those who gave everything for our nation.
We remember. We honor. We thank you.

05/22/2026

This morning, the Grand Junction Fire Department responded to two unrelated structure fires within minutes of each other.

https://www.gjcity.org/m/newsflash/home/detail/2140