Vernon Fire District

06/01/2026

In honor of National Say Something Nice Day, we'd like to say something nice about everyone:

You're all doing a great job with following Stage 1 Fire Restrictions.

There. We used up our annual allotment of compliments.

But seriously, today is a good day to tell someone they're appreciated. Compliment your spouse, thank a dispatcher, tell a firefighter they look good covered in ash, or let your neighbor know their property looks clean and very Firewise.

Need help getting started? Try:
"You look nice today."
"I appreciate you."
"Your smoke detector batteries are fresh and I respect that."

Drop a compliment in the comments and make someone's day a little brighter. Just remember—this is National Say Something Nice Day, not National Argue About Fire Restrictions Day.

05/31/2026

05/31/2026

***The following post is meant to be a fun post to remind everyone we are in fire restrictions. The safety of our community is always a top priority.
We want to recognize the event coordinators for taking the proper precautions to help ensure a safe event for everyone in attendance.

Measures included providing an adequate on-site
water supply, coordinating emergency response resources, and having emergency personnel standing by throughout the event. These proactive steps help reduce risk and allow attendees to enjoy the event safely while maintaining preparedness for any unforeseen situation.

Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and public safety personnel who worked together to make safety a priority. We appreciate everyone's commitment to helping keep our community safe. ***

It appears the Burn Unit Ambulance arrived powered by a jet engine and somehow missed every single Stage 1 Fire Restriction announcement, Facebook post, website update, sign, and carrier pigeon message we sent out.

While the rest of us are avoiding sparks, open flames, and anything remotely fun, this thing rolled in looking like it was ready for takeoff from Sky Harbor.

"Are we in fire restrictions?"
proceeds to light the afterburner

Reminder: If your vehicle requires aviation fuel, produces a 50-foot flame, or can be seen from space, it may not be the best choice during fire season.

Stay safe, everyone. Mother Nature is already cranky enough.

05/29/2026

The Red Flag Warning has been extended, apparently because Mother Nature found the repeat button and refuses to stop pressing it.

At this point:
- Lawn chairs are applying for air traffic control clearance.
- Trash cans are attempting cross-country travel.
- Tumbleweeds are achieving speeds normally reserved for race cars.
- Firefighters are considering anchoring themselves to the apparatus.

Please continue to avoid activities that could spark a wildfire. One small spark plus these winds could turn into a major incident in a hurry.

We know the wind is getting old. Trust us, we're tired of talking about it too. But until Mother Nature finds a new hobby, let's all do our part to keep the White Mountains fire-safe.

05/29/2026

Yesterday, Vernon Fire District responded to a structure fire that extended into the surrounding vegetation. Firefighters worked quickly to contain the fire and prevent further spread, while protecting nearby properties.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Unfortunately, the structure was a total loss. The American Red Cross has stepped in to assist the home owner.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District for their assistance in locating, accessing, and suppressing the fire. Incidents like these highlight the importance of strong partnerships and teamwork in protecting our communities.

As temperatures rise and fire danger increases, we encourage everyone to remain vigilant and practice fire safety around their homes and properties.

Thank you to all personnel who responded and worked tirelessly to bring this incident under control. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

05/29/2026

05/27/2026

I spy......

05/27/2026

The wind has officially chosen violence this week.

Thursday’s forecast for the White Mountains includes strong winds, low humidity, and critical fire conditions — which means Mother Nature is taking away everyone’s “just one little spark” privileges.

With conditions this dry and windy, fires can spread faster than small-town gossip at the gas station.

Our crews will be ready — but preventing the fire in the first place is everyone’s job

05/27/2026

Remember the dog crews rescued from the fire a few weeks ago?

Well… she has officially moved on from “fire scene survivor” to “professional spoiled house dog.”

Now named Sage, she’s settling into her new home perfectly and keeping her new sisters busy. Reports indicate she has mastered the important things in life: stealing comfy spots, supervising snack time, and acting like she’s owned the house for years.

From a rough start to a happy ending, Sage is living her best life — and honestly, we’re all a little jealous.

Thank you to everyone who followed her story and cheered her on along the way!

05/26/2026

A huge thank you to Apache County Public Health Services District for arranging this wonderful opportunity for our community to clean up their property.

We appreciate the continued support and partnership in keeping Vernon and the surrounding areas clean, safe, and beautiful for everyone. Community teamwork makes a difference!