02/21/2026
The Ruidoso Downs Fire Department would like to congratulate our brothers at the Ruidoso Fire Department on the formation of Local 3545! The establishment of this local represents unity, professionalism, and a continued commitment to protecting those who serve and the communities we are sworn to protect.
We are especially proud of our brother at the Ruidoso Fire Department and stand in full support of their dedication to leadership, service, and the firefighting profession. Strong partnerships and solidarity among departments only strengthen the fire service across our region.
Congratulations again to Local 3545 — we look forward to working alongside you in the years ahead.
The Ruidoso Professional Fire Fighters Association (RPFFA) is proud to announce that we have officially chartered with the International Association of Fire Fighters as IAFF Local 3545.
In a unanimous vote, 22 of 22 eligible firefighters voted in favor of unionizing and filed membership applications with the IAFF. This overwhelming support reflects unity within our department and a shared commitment to protecting the Village of Ruidoso with professionalism, experience, and pride.
To the citizens of Ruidoso:
We are your firefighters. We have stood with this community through the good times and the difficult ones — including the recent wildfires, flooding, and other disasters that have impacted our region. Our mission has not changed.
We stand with you. And we stand for you.
The formation of Local 3545 is about strengthening our department so we can continue providing the highest level of emergency service possible. IAFF affiliation gives our firefighters access to training resources, safety standards, and professional support that ultimately benefit the citizens we serve.
We are deeply grateful for the support this community has shown — not only to us, but to our brothers and sisters throughout Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation during recent emergencies. That support matters. It keeps us going.
Our commitment remains clear:
Protect life and property
Maintain professional excellence
Strengthen readiness for natural disasters
Serve the Village of Ruidoso with integrity and accountability
We welcome open communication with our community. Citizens are encouraged to reach out to us on social media or at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
We look forward to continuing to serve this community with dedication and pride.
Respectfully,
Ruidoso Professional Fire Fighters Association
IAFF Local 3545
