Valencia County Fire Department

08/29/2026

VCFD deployed resources to assist the Command Group overseeing the Whiskey Fire as well as the Blanco and Cerro Fires in the Manzano Mountains.

FF/Paramedic T. Garcia deployed as a paramedic resource assigned with one of our UTV's. FF/PM Garcia is working toward becoming a qualified Med Unit Leader.

We also assisted with set up of Helicopter dip sites should the need arise at some point.

The fire is still in a very remote area, and is not threatening any communities.

08/28/2026

FIRE UPDATE-

We have received multiple calls this afternoon in reference to the smoke from the Whiskey Fire.
The sudden large blanket of smoke is likely due to a down draft from an approaching storm.
The fire is approximately 83 acres, and is not accessible by crews on the ground. The terrain is also challenging for aircraft.
Here is an update from the Forest Service-

The Whiskey fire continues to burn in mixed conifer vegetation in a location of inaccessible steep terrain where it is difficult to safely insert firefighters for direct extinguishment. With a lack of natural barriers, steep terrain, and dry fuels, the Whiskey Fire is expected to continue to grow in the Manzano Mountain Wilderness. Fire managers are building an organization and strategic plan which incorporates the realities of the landscape and conditions for full suppression.

08/27/2026

Update- the road is now open.

VCFD units are on scene of a motor vehicle accident involving multiple vehicles on S El Cerro Loop at Kennedy Dr.
EL Cerro is closed in both directions while VCSO investigates.
Please seek an alternate route.

08/26/2026

FYI~

08/26/2026

VCFD units are on scene of a structure fire on Kiva Tr in Los Chavez.
Fire is under control, and cause is under investigation.
Thank you to Los Lunas Fire, Peralta Fire and VCSO for their assistance.

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.

08/24/2026

VCFD units are on scene of a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle at Highway 47 and N El Cerro Loop.
Southbound Highway 47 is down to one lane while VCSO investigates.
One patient was transported to UNMH with serious injuries.

08/24/2026

VCFD offers our support and condolences~

Mourning the Loss of Coworker After Medical Emergency During Incident Support

California Interagency Incident Management Team 8 is deeply saddened to confirm that a medical emergency has ended in the tragic loss of an incident support crew member assigned to the Frijoles Fire.

The medical incident occurred yesterday, Sunday, August 23, 2026. Emergency personnel responded immediately, the patient was transported to a local hospital and despite the efforts of emergency medical responders, the patient did not survive the medical event.

“Our hearts are with the family, friends, coworkers and all those affected by this tragic loss,” said Incident Commander, Mike Page. “Every person supporting the Frijoles Fire is an important part of our team. We are grieving alongside our fire family and will do everything we can to support those impacted.”

We ask that the privacy of the individual’s family, friends, and coworkers be respected during this difficult time.

08/23/2026

Come out to enjoy a fun day supporting Special Olympics of New Mexico, and watch teams compete for the Fire Truck Pull trophy!!

08/22/2026