Smoke Signals

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident on Highway 82 West of Tunnel

2011-07-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

At 0200 AM on 10 July 2011, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a vehicle accident slightly West of the Tunnel Overlook. Responding units found a single vehicle which had struck the side of the stone cliff running alongside the highway. Traffic was closed for a short while as the vehicle was removed and the lanes cleared. No information on injuries is available at this time.

June wrap-up...

2011-07-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

With the culmination of the New Mexico fire season, June was a busy month for us. We logged a total of 28 calls for service, many being calls to assist at large wildfires throughout the region. As a result, It was decided to form a Wildland Task Force to better respond to forest and wildfires, in coordination with Otero County and the US Forest Service. Anyone interested in being a part of this can contact Chief Mark Klaene for details.

Situation Report: Report of Smoke in Haynes Canyon

2011-05-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

At 9:50 AM, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a report of smoke in the area of Upper Haynes Canyon. Forest Service units were also dispatched to respond. High Rolls Fire units were first to arrive and did not locate any sign of fire in the area. Smoke and haze were noted for the entire High Rolls - Mountain Park region, but it appeared to be coming from across the Tularosa Basin and the San Andres Mountains. No sign of fire was noted. All units then cleared and returned to service.

Situation Report: Report of Smoke - Possible Wildfire

2011-05-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Around 2 pm on May 16th, High Rolls Fire was requested to respond on West Side Road, in the area of Cherry and Alamo Canyons for a report of smoke sighted in the National Forest area. Forest Service units responded along with High Rolls Fire, but nothing was found upon investigation. High Rolls units were released by the Forest Service, who then posted a fire engine to patrol the area in case the smoke was sighted again. All units later cleared, with no fire found.

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident - Motorcycle vs. Car

2011-05-17T09:52:00.000-07:00

At 10:35 pm on 15th of May, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a report of a vehicle striking a motorcycle on Highway 82 near Milepost 14. One patient was transported to GCRMC Emergency Department.

Situation Report: High Rolls Fire Dispatched to Assist with Mayhill Fire

2011-05-10T18:42:00.001-07:00

Around 2pm on Monday, 9th of May, High Rolls Fire was dispatched to assist with controlling a large and extremely fast moving wild-fire threatening the Sacramento Mountain community of Mayhill. High Rolls Fire provided an Urban/Wildland Interface Engine and a Type 5 Wildland engine to protect structures and homes located in the village of Mayhill from the encroaching forest fire. Operations are still in progress, as the fire is driven by Red Flag conditions and crews are rotated to provide support.

Situation Report: Vehicle Strikes Elk Near Mexican Canyon Trestle

2011-05-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

At 8:35pm, on May 3rd, High Rolls Fire and EMS were dispatched to respond to a report of a vehicle striking an elk on Highway 82 near the Mexican Canyon Trestle. No injuries or highway closures were reported.

Situation Report: Suspected Illegal Burn

2011-05-03T20:12:00.000-07:00

On Monday, May 2nd, at 3:30pm, High Rolls Fire was called to investigate a possible illegal burn taking place in the Apple Valley area. After a short investigation, it was found to be workers conducting repairs, mistaken for smoke by local residents. As a result of the current Burn Bans in place in Otero County and the Lincoln National Forest, all outdoor burning is prohibited.

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident Near Mexican Canyon Trestle

2011-05-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

On May 1st, at 5:30 pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a major accident on Highway 82 near the Mexican Canyon Railroad Trestle and overlook. Two vehicles struck nearly head-on, resulting in a highway closure of 1 and 1/2 hours. Over 8 patients were transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center as a result. Cloudcroft Fire and EMS were called to assist in a mutual aid response.

Situation Report: HRVFD Called to Assist Ruidoso Downs with Devastating Wildfire

2011-04-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

At 7pm last night, High Rolls Fire Department was called to assist Ruidoso Downs and Forest Service on a wildfire burning in the Gavilan Canyon area. This fire, named the White Fire, started during Red Flag conditions and quickly grew to encompass 6000 acres, threatening neighborhoods and racetrack/casino facilities in the Ruidoso Downs area. Neighborhoods and subdivisions of Ruidoso Downs and East Ruidoso were evacuated, as the fire rapidly spread in the 60 mph winds. High Rolls Fire sent a brushfire unit and personnel to assist in evacuations and wildfire control.

Situation Report: Brush Fire in La Luz Canyon Area

2011-03-04T19:35:00.000-08:00

At 0750 am, High Rolls Fire was dispatched, along with Burro Flats Fire, and units from the US Forest Service to a report of a brush fire on Lincoln National Forest land, in the area where La Luz Canyon and Bailey Canyon intersect. High Rolls Units arrived on scene and contained the fire, turning control of the scene over to fire crews of the US Forest Service.

Situation Report: Rescue of Fall Victim at Tunnel Vista Overlook

2011-03-02T16:08:00.000-08:00

At approximately 2:00 pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a female fall victim at the High Rolls Tunnel Vista overlook. The patient fell and was approximately 180 feet down the cliff from the observation area. A low angle rescue was conducted and the patient was extracted using a stokes litter and a rope hauling system. Mutual aid was requested from La Luz Fire, Cloudcroft Fire and EMS, Otero County Sheriff, AMR Medical, and local Search and Rescue personnel. The patient was transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center.

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident on Highway 82 East of Tunnel

2011-02-21T18:26:00.001-08:00

At 2:40pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was called to the scene of a single vehicle auto accident near the Highway 82 Tunnel. Traffic was impeded for an hour, and all parties refused medical assistance. The scene was clear at 3:45pm.

Weather Update on the Mountain...

2011-02-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

The snow's have finally cleared, but last week's storm was a busy time for us. At the height of the storm, High Rolls Fire ran multiple vehicle accidents along US 82, from automobiles sliding on the icy road. No major injuries were reported, but units were busy most of the day, and the highway was eventually closed to all traffic. Most of the problems were centered around the switchbacks near the High Rolls Tunnel and Scenic Overlook.

Time to Clear Your Brush!

2011-02-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

Our forests and grasslands are overgrown, leading to anticipation that this Spring's fire season is going to be especially harsh. Today, the High Rolls Fire Department set the example by clearing brush around the station and performing a controlled burn to rid the overgrowth. We heartily recommend clearing the brush around your home to create a defensible space in case of wild-fire. It is recommended to clear brush back at least 30 feet from your home. The High Rolls Fire Department and Otero County Sheriff's Office should be contacted if you plan to perform any controlled burning. A fire truck can be arranged on request, for special situations. Interested persons should contact Chief Klaene for details.

Situation Report: Multi Vehicle Accident on Highway 82

2011-01-13T18:13:00.000-08:00

At 2:05 pm, High Rolls Fire Department responded to Mile Marker 4 on Highway 82 for a reported motor vehicle accident with entrapment. Upon arrival, High Rolls units were faced with a multi-car accident with one patient entrapped facing life threatening injuries due to crash impact. The Native Air helicopter ambulance was requested and Dungan Fire Department set up a landing zone to transport the traumatically injured patient. Highway 82 remained closed for approximately 2 hours as the vehicles were removed and the road was made safe by removing debris and spilled fuel. One additional patient was transported with non-life threatening injuries.

Situation Report: Possible Vehicle Fire

2010-12-28T06:17:00.000-08:00

On Dec 26th, at 11:50 AM, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a possible vehicle fire on Highway 82 near Bailey Canyon. Units responded but were unable to locate any vehicle in distress.

Situation Report: Update - Pine Stump Mall Fire

2010-12-13T19:30:00.000-08:00

The fire at the Pine Stump Mall was declared under control this afternoon around 2pm. The firefighters managed to stop the spread, but several historic buildings were lost in the fight. One injury was sustained by the responding firefighters, and one civililian was transported to GCRMC due to smoke. The cause has not been released.

Situation Report: Mutual Aid with Cloudcroft Fire Department on Major Structure Fire

2010-12-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

At 4:30am this morning, Cloudcroft Fire was dispatched for a report of a fire in the Downtown Mall on Burro Street. The first arriving units found a well involved fire, which quickly progressed to a major incident requiring outside aid in order to prevent the loss of most of the Downtown District. Mutual Aid support was requested from surrounding departements including James Canyon, High Rolls, Upper Cox Canyon, Dungan FD, and many other Otero County Fire Organizations. This incident has not been terminated as these departments continue their fight to save what remains of this historical building dating from the 19th Century. High Rolls Fire and EMS currently has units and personnel operating on scene, performing firefighting and EMS operations.

Photo from Alamogordo Daily News.

Situation Report: Brush Fire on Highway 82 Near Dry Canyon

2010-12-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

At 4:45 pm, High Rolls Fire was dispatched to respond to a brush-fire on Highway 82 across from the Dry Canyon turnoff. Arriving units found a small area of brush along the highway on fire, being fought by passers-by with shovels. The fire was extinguished, and the area was wet-down by the fire department.

Situation Report: Rollover East of Highway 82 Tunnel

2010-12-02T22:24:00.000-08:00

High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a report of a single vehicle rollover 1/4 mile East of the Highway Tunnel on Highway 82, near the Scenic Overlook. Upon arrival, crews found a pick-up truck resting upon it's roof, with both lanes blocked. The occupants were helped out and treated by medical crews, with one patient being transported to GRMC with minor injuries. The highway was blocked for at least 1 hour, as recovery personnel up-righted the car and cleared the roadway. Units from the High Rolls Main Station and the Pineywoods Substation responded to this call, along with AMR medical personnel.

Situation Report: Structure Fire near Trout Farm on Highway 82

2010-11-01T22:56:00.000-07:00

At 6:10 pm, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a report of a barn on fire, located in the area of the old Trout Farm on Highway 82. Units from three High Rolls Fire stations responded, and the fire was contained to the point of origin by the firefighting crews. The fire is suspected to have been caused by an electrical malfunction. No firefighters or civilians were injured in the operation, and only minor damage was sustained by the structure.

Situation Report: Rollover on Karr Canyon Road

2010-10-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

At 5:10pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to an MVA Rollover about 1 and 1/2 miles up Karr Canyon Road from Highway 82. First arriving units found a single passenger vehicle approximately 30 feet down the side of the canyon. One occupant was found, who appeared uninjured and was not transported by EMS. The vehicle was in difficult and very steep terrain, causing a delay in recovery operations. As a result Karr Canyon Road was closed for about 2 hours as the recovery vehicles performed their operations in order for the road to be cleared.

Situation Report:: Injured Hiker Rescued from Salado Canyon

2010-10-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, 17th of October, High Rolls Fire and EMS was called to assist an injured hiker on the Bridal Veil Falls trail in Salado Canyon. The hiker was incapacitated and was trapped in a creek-bed, unable to scale the cliff back to safety. High Rolls Fire was assisted by personnel from La Luz FD, and the patient was rescue using ropes and a Stokes Litter. He was located about 1 mile into the trail from the nearest trail-head. The operation took 2 1/2 hours to complete, with the patient being transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center via AMR ambulance.

Situation Report:: Update

2010-10-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire assisted La Luz FD with traffic control for two vehicle accidents in the area of MM 3 or 4 on Highway 82. These two accidents shut down the highway for approximately 1 hour. They occurred during the night on September 30th, and again around 2:00pm on October 1st. One involved a 18 wheeled semi-truck.

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Accident Near MM10 on Highway 82

2010-09-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

At 6:47 tonight, High Rolls Fire was called out for a motor vehicle accident near Milepost 10 on US Highway 82. No injuries were reported, fire units performed traffic control until the scene was clear.

Situation Report: Rollover Highway 82 below Lower Escape Ramp

2010-09-23T08:26:00.000-07:00

At 2:30 am, High Rolls Fire and EMS responded to a vehicle rollover below the Lower Truck Escape Ramp on US Highway 82.

Situation Report:: Two-Vehicle Head-on Accident West of Tunnel on Highway 82

2010-09-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

At 15:56 today, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a report of a two vehicle accident with injuries, just west of the Highway Tunnel on Highway 82. First arriving units found two vehicles which had struck head on. Three patients were transported to Gerald Champion Medical Center. Units from High Rolls Fire and EMS, Dungan Fire Department, and American Medical Response operated at this emergency. La Luz VFD was also dispatched but canceled en-route.

Situation Report:: Line Down on Cottage Row

2010-09-03T17:41:00.000-07:00

At 0705, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for electrical lines down across Cottage Row road. Units on scene later determined the line to be a telephone line, presenting no danger to the public.

Situation Report:: Stalled Gasoline Tanker Blocking Highway 82

2010-08-18T21:50:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire was dispatched to provide traffic control on Highway 82 1/4 mile East of the Tunnel when a Semi-trailer transporting gasoline became disabled. The tanker truck was blocking the West-bound lane of the two-lane highway. HRVFD was on scene for approximately an hour directing traffic until the semi could be towed.

Situation Report:: Tree Down Across Highway 82

2010-08-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

At 15:45 yesterday, High Rolls Fire was dispatched to remove a fallen tree that was creating a safety hazard across the West Bound Lane of Highway 82, near a blind curve. The tree was safely removed by firefighters to prevent a secondary vehicle accident.

Situation Report: Tanker Truck with Smoking Brakes

2010-08-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Around Noon today, High Rolls Fire was called to respond to a report of a semi-trailer tanker truck with hot and smoking brakes near Mile Marker 11 on Highway 82.

Situation Report: Rollover on Fesnal Canyon Road

2010-08-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

Approximately 1345 yesterday, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to a single vehicle rollover .2 miles West of Steep Hill Road in Fresnal Canyon. No one was injured and crews remained on scene until the vehicle was safely removed, allowing the road to be opened.

Situation Report:: Rescue of Family Stranded on Cliff Below Tunnel Vista

2010-07-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

At approximately 5:30 pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to assist a hiker stranded at the bottom of Fresnal Canyon below the Tunnel Vista on Highway 82. When High Rolls Fire personnel arrived, they found two adult males and a child stranded on the cliff about halfway up the overlook. A low angle rescue evolution was undertaken with ropes and belays and the stranded persons were safely retrieved to the Tunnel Vista Overlook by 6:45pm. No serious injuries were noted.

Situation Report: RV with Hot Brakes on Highway 82.

2010-07-04T22:39:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a motor home coming down the mountain with overheated brakes, near Mile Marker 5 on Highway 82. After a quick check, and a short period of cooling off, the situation stabilized with no damage or further action required.

Situation Report:: Wildfire on on BLM land off Highway 82

2010-06-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

At 1:30 pm, High Rolls Fire assisted BLM and Forest Service, and other local units on a wildfire located across Dry Canyon near Mile Marker 3 on Highway 82. The fire was located about 1500' feet up the mountain, in a position unreachable by vehicles, so all firefighting was accomplished by hand crews. The fire (named the Dry Canyon Fire) was turned over to BLM at 5:00pm, and the Smokey Bear Hotshots performed final containment and mop-up. All High Rolls units were released around 7:00pm. High Rolls Fire, La Luz FD, and Alamo West fire departments performed initial attack with hand crews. The fire torched and made several runs, being driven by 20mph wind gusts. The cause of the fire was attributed to lightning.

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident on Highway 82 at Karr Canyon.

2010-06-20T23:28:00.000-07:00

Around 9:30 pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a vehicle accident at the intersection of Karr Canyon Road and Highway 82. No serious injuries were reported.

Situation Report: Injured Hiker in Apache Canyon

2010-06-06T21:13:00.000-07:00

Hire Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to assist a hiker injured on the trail in Apache Canyon around 2:00pm. The responding crews had to hike in a short distance to locate and remove the injured party. High Rolls Fire was assisted by elements of Cloudcroft Fire and EMS, Otero County Sherrif, and Rangers from the Lincoln National Forest.

Situation Report: Chasing Smoke in the Lincoln National Forest

2010-05-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

The last couple of days has been marked with a rise in the thunderstorm activity over the Sacramento Mountains. With this activity comes lightning. Coupled with the dry forest, it can be a recipe for a slowly simmering forest fire, waiting to burst into life when the right conditions present themselves. High Rolls Fire has responded to two incidents related to possible lightning strikes and smoke sightings within the National Forest areas.

The first occured in the afternoon hours on the 27th of May, and was initially dispatched as a possible structural fire in the boundaries of another adjoining fire district. The smoke proved difficult to located in the canyons of the Sacramentos, and in the end Cloudcroft, High Rolls, and James Canyon fire departments ended up being sent to search for the smoke. It was determined the source of the smoke was a lightning strike in the area of La Luz Canyon.

The second incident occured around midnight on May 28th. High Rolls Fire responded wildland apparatus to the area of Mile Marker 15 on Highway 82 for a report of smoke in Bailey Canyon from an unkown source. At first, a lightning strike was suspected, but it was later determined to be smoke caught in a weather inversion from a controlled burn. This burn was being conducted by Lincoln National Forest fire crews near NM Route 244.

Situation Report:: Lost Hiker in Fresnal Canyon

2010-05-06T22:08:00.000-07:00

At 8:40 on May 7th, 2010, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to rescue a lost hiker located in Fresnal Canyon below the scenic overlook. The hiker was located and appeared uninjured. She was evaluated by EMS and all units later cleared the scene. The hiker stated they stayed in the canyon too long and darkness caused her party to lose their way and she ended up going back up a much rougher trail. It is good she was located early, as it could have made for a rough and dangerous night for the firefighters and the lost hiker.

Situation Report: Highway 82 Closed due to Snow.

2010-05-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire was dispatched to close Highway 82 to Cloudcroft due to a late Winter snowstorm at 6:40 am. The Highway remained closed until the NM Highway Department snowplows could clear the road and travel was safe for motorists.

Situation Report: Car off cliff near Railroad Trestle on Hwy 82

2010-04-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

At 7:40 AM, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched for a motor vehicle accident rollover near the Railroad Trestle. Upon arrival, units found a vehicle which had left the roadway and fell a considerable distance down a cliff into Mexican Canyon near the Cloudcroft Sewage Treatment Plant. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported via AMR ambulance to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center. Traffic was tied up on Highway 82 for about an hour. Units from High Rolls, James Canyon, and Cloudcroft Fire Departments responded to this incident.

Situation Report: Power Lines Down and Arcing

2010-04-29T19:24:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a report of power lines down and arcing on Old Railroad Drive. Fire units stood by and secured the area for safety and to prevent accidental fires from the electrical arcing. The power was eventually secured. No injuries were reported. This incident was caused by the strong winds experienced on the mountain today.

Training Operations: Drafting

2010-04-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

Today the crew trained on setting up and operating a portable draft tank. These tanks are used in conjunction with our Water Tenders to supply water to a pumper truck in areas where there are no fire hydrants. Our Largest Water Tender, #621 carries 3500 gallons, and is set up for one person operations. Everything can be operated within the cab, and video cameras provide visibility for the driver. These photos show the crew setting up for the drafting operation utilizing Tender #621, and it's smaller cousin, Tender #622.

More Pictures from the 50th Anniversary Activities...

2010-04-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

High Rolls FD conducted a few demos to show the public the kinds of activities we are called upon to perform. These demos included a pump and roll wildland fire demo, fire extinguishers, drafting and resupply, and simulated vehicle extrication operations.

Here are a few images...

The High Rolls Fire Demo Team; Left to Right: Paul McCarty, Chris Ryan, Chad Poindexter, Clint Oppell, Steve Mclheney, Mike Jones.

High Rolls Fire and EMS - 50th Birthday Bash!

2010-04-10T23:36:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire and EMS celebrated their 50th year of service today. The doors were thrown open and the local residents were invited to partake of a free breakfast and Barbecue dinner. In 1960, High Rolls Fire started with 7 firefighters and a surplus truck with a small pump in the back. In fifty years, we now have 22 firefighters, 4 stations, and 11 fire trucks. The department has come a long way since it's inception 50 years ago.

Here are some pictures from the festivities...

Pictures from Karr Canyon Accident.

2010-04-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

Here are a few images from the Karr Canyon response earlier this day. As you can see, our responding firefighters had their hands full.

Situation Report: Car Overturned with Persons Trapped

2010-04-04T13:37:00.000-07:00

Today at 11:15 AM, High Rolls Fire and EMS responded to a report of a vehicle accident with persons trapped on Karr Canyon Rd. Upon arrival, the responding fire units found a passenger car on it's side embedded into a tree. One occupant was able to exit the vehicle, but the other two were trapped and had to be removed by firefighters. Three persons were transported to Gerald Champion Hospital, one with serious injuries. Responding units included High Rolls Fire Stations 1 and 2, Cloudcroft EMS, and AMR Paramedics. Karr Canyon Road was blocked for about 1 1/2 hours as a result.

High Rolls Fire and EMS turns 50!

2010-03-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

Join us on April the 10th for our 50th Anniversary celebration. We will be staging an Open House at our Main Station at 39 Old Railroad Drive in High Rolls, NM. Planned events will include a Barbecue, display of fire apparatus and equipment, history of High Rolls Fire, Activities for the Kids, and Fire Safety, EMS/CPR, and Fire Extinguisher demos. Activities are roughly scheduled from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

Bring the family for some food and fun with the High Rolls Fire Department in celebration of our 50th anniversary!

Highlights from Thursday's Live Training...

2010-02-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

Thursdays' training consisted of a live burn simulating a typical vehicle fire. Crews practiced safe approaches and fire attack methods to avoid danger zones created by airbags and struts. During a vehicle fire these can become deadly projectiles.

Situation Report: Chimney Fire in Terrace Circle area.

2010-02-15T18:37:00.000-08:00

At 6 o' clock pm, High Rolls Fire was dispatched for a report of a chimney fire in the Terrace Circle area; unknown address. The report was from a person viewing it from across the canyon. After a small search of the area, the fire was located and was extinguished with no damage to the residence. Fire was confined to the chimney. The occupant was advised to have the chimney cleaned before using it again.

This highlights an important concern for the winter season; having a clean chimney free of creosote build-up. If you have not had your chimney cleaned this year, please have it done. Little chimney fires can develop into full scale structural fires very easily. A little prevention goes a long way.

Situation Report: Semi-Truck Rollover

2010-01-30T10:48:00.000-08:00

At 11:35 pm, on January 29th, High Rolls Fire was dispatched to the rollover of an eighteen wheel semi-truck at the intersection of Highway 82 and Apache Canyon Rd. The eighteen wheeler was coming down the mountain, westbound on Highway 82, when the operator lost control and rolled over spilling his load of automobile tires. The vehicle was extensively damaged, but no injuries were reported. Highway 82 remained closed for six hours while road crews cleaned up the load and cleared wreckage.

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Collision in Pineywoods

2010-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

High Rolls Fire and EMS was called to a motor vehicle collision at 6:15pm today. The accident occurred directly in front of High Rolls Fire Pineywoods Station # 3, located in the Pineywoods Subdivision. The narrow roads to the area were difficult to travel due to snow and ice, and access to the scene was very limited. One patient was transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center with a chest injury. Units from High Rolls Station 1 and the Pineywoods Substation responded to this incident.

Situation Report: Delivery Truck Rollover in Snowstorm.

2010-01-23T11:50:00.000-08:00

Around 3:30 pm on January 22nd, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to a rollover involving a delivery type Box Truck on Highway 82 near the Apache Canyon turn-off. The truck had been travelling down the mountain in a severe snowstorm, when it slid off the road and turned over. It took nearly an hour and a half to clear, using a large wrecker and a crane. No injuries were reported.

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Accident

2010-01-09T10:48:00.001-08:00

At around 06:15 AM on the 8th of January, High Rolls Fire and EMS responded to a motor vehicle collision on Highway 82 at the Pine Valley intersection. Weather was snowing and extrememly foggy at the time, and operations were made more complicated by the snow on the roadway. One patient was transported to Gerald Champion Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Training Announcement

2010-01-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

Training on the new Rescue truck is scheduled for Saturday, the 9th of January. It is to begin at 09:00 AM.

A meeting is scheduled at 7:00 PM on the 12th of January to plan for the HRVFD 50th Anniversary celebration. Please try to attend.

Sierra Blanca Fire Academy

2010-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

The annual Sierra Blanca Wildland Fire Academy in Ruidoso is scheduled for the first week of February. If you are interested in going contact Chief Klaene. Class expenses are normally covered by the department for members.

You can see the training schedule at this link:

http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/administrative/training/training.htm

Situation Report: Fire Alarm

2010-01-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

At 7:45pm, High Rolls Fire responded to a fire alarm activation on Hummingbird Drive. No emergency was found and all fire units cleared scene shortly afterwards.

New Light Duty Rescue Placed in Service

2009-12-28T19:16:00.001-08:00

Rescue Unit 646 was placed into service on Dec 27th, 09. This unit replaces an older model, that is no longer adequate for service required. It can carry everything the old truck could carry, and a little more. The equipment storage is fully enclosed, so it is protected from the weather. The chassis is a Ford F550 diesel, with manual 4 wheel drive and an automatic transmission. It has a slide out equipment tray in the rear for awkward and heavy items. It was manufactured by Freedom Fire Apparatus.

This unit can perform search and rescue, low angle/rope rescue, and rescue patients entrapped in vehicle accidents. It also carries a complement of firefighting tools for firefighting duties.

The New Rescue Truck

2009-12-15T16:06:00.000-08:00

The new Rescue Truck is nearly complete. It is due to be delivered very soon, and will replace the current truck, Unit 645. Here is an image of it.

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Roll-over

2009-12-11T20:19:00.000-08:00

At 6:30pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was dispatched to Mile Marker 10 on Highway 82 for a single vehicle rollover. The vehicle left the roadway and rolled down a 20-30 foot drop-off into a small canyon. A low angle rescue operation was conducted to rescue the two occupants. Both were transported to the regional hospital via AMR ambulance.

December Update

2009-12-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

High Rolls Fire has been busy supporting operations with the county due to the heavy recent snowfalls. The FD Plow Truck has been utilized to ensure fire and rescue access is maintained for the citizens of Otero County. High Rolls Fire also supported the recovery of seven stranded hunters, stuck in the snow, near the Upper Cox Canyon area.

In January, we are possibly scheduled to take delivery of a new Rescue unit, to replace the current unit #645. This truck will be used to carry rescue, vehicle extrication, and specialized forcible entry tools. It will also be used to support medical response with High Rolls EMS, and to perform basic Search and Rescue. It will be a fine addition to replace an aging workhorse in our department. We will keep you posted on any new developments.

Christmas Dinner Re-scheduled

2009-12-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

The Fire Department Christmas dinner has re-scheduled for the night of Monday, 7th at 6:00pm. It was to be held last Tuesday but was postponed due to weather.

Situation Report: Reported Vehicle Fire

2009-11-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

On November 25th around 10:30 am, High Rolls Fire responded to a report of a Semi-truck on fire near Bailey Canyon curve on Highway 82. When Units arrived on scene, it was determined to be a blown turbo-charger, and no additional assistance was required.

Training Reminder

2009-11-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

We have scheduled training this Saturday the 21st, at the Pineywoods Fire Station at 09:00. The topic will be driving and operating the new pumper, Engine #612. All personnel are encouraged to attend.

Forest Service Burn at Calico Peak

2009-11-17T18:04:00.000-08:00

The US Forest Service will be burning off vegetation on Calico Peak on November 17th and 18th. Expect to see large amounts of smoke in, above, and around the High Rolls area.

Training Reminder: Thursday 22nd

2009-10-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

We will be conducting training on Thursday at approx 6:30 pm. The topic will be Vehicle Firefighting. Specifically, it will be a classroom session concerning the dangers presented by modern vehicles and how time tested tactics need to be re-visited for our own safety in most cases. Updated basic tactics for combatting vehicles fires will be discussed.

For further info please contact the Fire Chief.

Fire Prevention Week

2009-10-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

This week is Fire Prevention Week, an event that is celebrated by all fire departments in the USA. Two very notorious fires near the end of the 19th century led to it's creation, in the hopes that future catastrophes can be prevented. These two fires were the Great Chicago Fire, and the little known Peshtigo fire. These two fires caused tremendous property damage, and in the case of Peshtigo, virtually wiped the town off the face of the Earth with thousands of casualties. They also burned on the same date, at almost exactly the same time. Two simultaneous great fires were too much for the nation to take, and several years later a National Fire Prevention Week was created. It has been celebrated every year since.

Here are highlights from our activities at the High Rolls Elementary marking this occasion. A Fire Safety presentation was conducted and the children were allowed to play a game of "squirt the burning house" utilizing a wooden prop built for the occasion.

Pictured left to right are Firefighters Chris Ryan, Paul McCarty, Krystal Poindexter, and Tommy Hatfield.

New Fire Truck Due to Arrive...

2009-10-08T14:09:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire is scheduled to take delivery of a new pumper apparatus from Artesia Fire Equipment during the month of October. This new truck will replace an older unit that has reached the end of it's service life. It is a wildland/urban interface type pumper, capable of performing structural fire or wildland fire suppression, and is on a short chassis for our mountainous environment. It will be placed into service in the Pineywoods Station.

Just in from Lincoln National Forest

2009-10-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

SALADO PRESCRIBED BURN

Alamogordo, NM (October 8, 2009) - The Lincoln National
 Forest Sacramento Ranger District will conduct the
Salado Prescribed Burn during the week of
October 19, 2009. The burn location is approximately
three miles north of High Rolls, NM. Residents of the
High Rolls, Mountain Park, Fresnal Canyon, and La Luz
Canyon areas may see and smell smoke for the duration
of the burn.  During the implementation of the burn,
 smoke is expected to be highly visible from NM Highway 70,
La Luz and Tularosa. When the burning begins, signs will
be posted along roadways affected by the smoke and
motorists are urged to use caution. Forest personnel
will be posting current information regarding the
progress of the burn for communities and residents
in the area. As always, firefighter and public safety
are a top priority. For more information, please contact
 the Sacramento Ranger District Office at (575) 682-2551,
between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The address is:  Sacramento Ranger District Office,  
4 Lost Lodge Road, Cloudcroft, NM 88310

Training Announcement : October

2009-10-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

The month of October is a busy one for us here in the department.

The schedule looks like this:

1. 10-13-- 7 pm Cloudcroft VFD -- Patient handling training. (optional intra-department training).

2. Oct 10th - 11 am Fire Prevention Week Parade and Muster in Cloudcroft --county wide demos.

3. Oct 8th - Fire Prevention at High Rolls Elementary School --meet Main Station at 0830 am.

4. Oct 22 - 6:30 pm Vehicle fire training at the Main Station. (monthly scheduled training).

5. Oct 30 and 31st - Haz Mat Training at Main Station (must be registered!)

6. Introduction to Firefighting class set to begin. No date announced yet. Contact us for further info.

Situation Report: Report of Three Motorcycles Down on Hwy 82

2009-09-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

At 4:00 pm, High Rolls Fire responded to a report of a vehicle accident involving a car and three motorcycles in the vicinity of the Lower Escape Ramp on Highway 82. Mutual Aid was requested from Dungan EMS and units from Burro Flats EMS. After the situation was sized-up, no serious injuries were found and all units cleared and returned to quarters.

Vehicle Rescue Training

2009-09-24T21:02:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, the 22nd of September, High Rolls Fire and EMS conducted a rescue exercise simulating a wreck with two patients, one patient pinned under the burning car. The fire was extinguished and the car was lifted with rescue struts to extricate the pinned patient.

Situation Report: Mudslides and Rockfalls on Hwy 82

2009-09-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

At 6:00 p.m. on 16 September, High Rolls Fire was called to Highway 82 to shut-down the highway and assist State clean-up crews following a series of mudslides and rockfalls in the area of the High Rolls Tunnel and Lower Escape ramp. A severe thunderstorm and heavy rainfall caused these problems and left a trail of debris along nearly six miles of roadway, making safe passage impossible. Highway 82 was closed for 4 hours while clean-up proceeded.

At 10:00 p.m. this same night, High Rolls Fire and EMS responded to a vehicle accident caused by falling rock about 1 mile West of the Lower Escape ramp. No injuries were reported, and the vehicle was towed for repair.

Situation Report: Boulder in Highway 82

2009-09-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

At around 0200 a.m. High Rolls Fire was called Mile Marker 6 near the Tunnel on Highway 82 for a fallen boulder obstructing the roadway. They performed traffic control duties while the large rock was removed.

Situation Report: Vehicle Accident West of Trestle

2009-09-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

At 6:40 pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS units were called to a Vehicle Accident just west of the Mexican Canyon Trestle on Highway 82. One vehicle was reported on fire.
Units from High Rolls Station #1, Cloudcroft EMS , and High Rolls Pineywoods Station #3 responded to the scene. One patient was transported to Gerald Champion Hospital.

Situation Report: Busy Day on the Mountain...

2009-09-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

Two incidents to report...

Around 5:00pm, High Rolls Fire responded to a report of an unknown type fire in the vicinity of Fresnal Canyon Road, near the intersection of Old Railroad Drive. Upon arrival, fire units determined the fire to be a controlled burn. All responding units were cancelled and returned to quarters.

At around 7:00pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS responded to a vehicle accident involving two cars located at the pull-off for the Tunnel Vista. One female patient was transported by AMR ambulance.

Hazardous Materials Awareness/Operations Class

2009-09-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

From the Fire Chief:

Sue D. has made arrangements with the Fire Academy to put on a Hazmat Awareness/Operations class locally. Discussion on dates, everyone agreed on Oct. 31st-Nov. 1st, and Nov. 7th-8th. Classes will be held at High Rolls VFD. Prospective students need to file an application with the State Fire Academy by Sept. 30th.
if you want to attend this (actually required for FF1 certification) and don't know how to apply let me know and I'll help you

Contact Chief Klaene for further info.

*Note from High Rolls 603* This class is HIGHLY recommended for all personnel. An example where this would come in handy would be for an incident involving a spill, such as diking spilled saddle tanks on a semi-truck. This is a common occurence, that is considered an Operations Level response. In order to perform this type of work, we are technically required to hold these certifications. Instances have arisen where this could become an issue and we could be held liable.

At the very least, we should all maintain Awareness level certifications.

Upcoming Training: September 22nd

2009-09-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

We have scheduled training for all members on 22nd of September. It is planned to consist of an auto extrication/fire scenario.

Meeting Announcement: September 1st

2009-08-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

The next scheduled meeting will be September 1st, at the Main Station. On the agenda, is discussion about possible new apparatus purchases. Members please be sure you attend if you wish to be a part of the decision-making process.

High Rolls VFD will be hosting a meeting of ASAR on August 25th from 6-8pm. Anyone is welcome to attend.

Prescribed Fires in Area

2009-08-25T14:39:00.001-07:00

SACRAMENTO RANGER DISTRICT TO CONTINUE
WITH PRESCRIBED BURNS

Alamogordo, NM (August 24, 2009) – The Lincoln National Forest 
Sacramento Ranger District will continue implementing several 
prescribed pile burns over the next few months. These pile burns 
began the week of July 6, 2009, and will continue as long as the 
current weather conditions permit.
The burn in James Canyon near the Irongate subdivision was completed 
in mid July. We will continue burning in the Cloudcroft area around 
Bailey Canyon and Sleepy Grass picnic area as well as burning the 
Slash Pit at the junction of US Highway 82 and 244, as needed.  
Additionally, pile burns will be conducted south of Cloudcroft in 
the area of Upper Karr recreation area.
Residents of local communities as well as the public may see and 
smell smoke for the duration of the burns. When the burning begins, 
signs will be posted along highways affected by the smoke and 
motorists are urged to use caution. Forest personnel will be posting 
current information regarding the progress of the burn for 
communities and residents in the area. As always, firefighter and 
public safety are a top priority.
For additional information, please contact the Sacramento Ranger 
District Office, (575) 682-2551, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., 
Monday through Saturday. The address is:  Sacramento Ranger District 
Office, 4 Lost Lodge Road, Cloudcroft, NM, 88310.
For more information about the Lincoln National Forest, please visit 
our web site at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln or the Southwest 
Coordination Center, which provides fire information, logistics and 
predictive services at the following web site:  http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Collision

2009-08-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

At around 01:00 am, High Rolls Fire and EMS was called out to Mile Marker 12 on Highway 82 for a rear end collision involving two vehicles.

Controlled Burn

2009-08-20T16:53:00.001-07:00

High Rolls VFD conducted a controlled burn on Saturday, August 15th. a large brush pile and vegetation was burned off by request of the property owner. Any person wishing to conduct a burn on their property are advised to contact High Rolls VFD and Otero County Sherriff's Office, to ensure burning is allowed for the planned date and that the planned burn is in a safe location. Permits are also required, depending upon the burning season.

Situation Report: Vehicle vs. Boulder

2009-08-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

Around 6:30pm, Thursday evening, High Rolls Fire / Rescue was called to a motor vehicle collision slightly west of the Lower Escape Ramp on Highway 82. A vehicle was found to have struck a large boulder lying in the roadway. No serious injuries were reported, though the car was severely damaged. High Rolls Fire Department's snowplow truck was called to the scene for rock removal.

Forcible Entry Training

2009-08-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots of Tuesday night's Forcible entry class. Different techniques were practiced utilizing a varied selection of locks and a donated training building.

Training Announcement: Tuesday, August 11th

2009-08-06T18:26:00.000-07:00

Scheduled training on Forcible Entry is to be conducted for HRFD members on August 11th, around 6:30 pm. Training location to be determined (possibly at the Pineywoods Station).

Vehicle Rescue Training

2009-08-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

High Rolls Fire conducted vehicle rescue training Thursday Night. This training simulated an overturned vehicle with a passenger needing extrication. The crew practiced stabilizing the vehicle for entry and lifting the vehicle to remove a trapped patient underneath.

Mountain Rescue Working Group Being Formed

2009-07-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Cloudcroft FD in cooperation with James Canyon and High Rolls Fire is in the process of forming a working group to explore the possibility of creating a joint High/Low Angle rescue team. Several shared targeted hazards have been identified which are spurring the creation of this group to explore the idea of this team. A pre-liminary meeting was conducted in which representatives of the respective fire departments got to know each other and tried to establish a baseline of equipment needed.

Anyone wishing to take part should contact Mark Klaene or Paul McCarty at one of the next scheduled meetings.

Training Reminder

2009-07-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

General Announcement to all members...

There will be training on deployment of the new FIT-5 initial attack device at the Otero County Fire Training Ground on Highway 70 tomorrow night. We will need at least one pumper and a crew of 4 with structural firefighting gear. Anyone who wishes to attend should be at the training grounds prior to 5:30pm or should make arrangements to catch a ride down the mountain to attend.

Situation Report: Motorcycle vs. Car

2009-07-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

At 5:10pm, High Rolls Fire and EMS was called to the scene of a vehicle accident with injuries near MM 9 in the area of "the Old Apple Barn". The accident involved an automobile striking a motorcycle, sending one man to the hospital with injuries. The patient was transported via AMR ambulance into Alamogordo.

Flood Control

2009-07-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

The heavy rains yesterday caused several flooding issues in and around High Rolls. Our volunteers were busy filling sand-bags, fixing wash-outs, and re-inforcing areas prone to flooding. Several washed out roads caused problems, the most notable being Old Firehouse and several points along Karr Canyon. A supply of filled sand-bags has been station at the Main Station for use if flooding becomes an issue for the High Rolls area again, over the next few weeks. Otero County and Boles Acres FD provided assistance with the sand-bagging operations.

Not Everything a Fire...

2009-07-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

The High Rolls Fire Department was called out at 0230 AM for a report of a downed tree blocking Highway 82 near MM 12. The tree was no match for the chainsaws of the HRFD wildland fire units, and the highway was quickly cleared.

Situation Report: Motor Vehicle Accident near High Rolls Tunnel.

2009-06-29T14:23:00.000-07:00

At 3:15 today, High Rolls Fire responded to a vehicle accident slightly west of the High Rolls Tunnel. Response included Fire Suppression and Rescue units with personnel, including AMR ambulance from Alamogordo. No major injuries noted.

Photos not available at this time.

De-Brief at Main Station Tonight...

2009-06-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

We will be holding an incident de-briefing for the Fresnal Canyon Rescue, at the Main Fire Station tonight. Members please show up so we can discuss issues related to our response to this incident.

Situation Report: Rollover Near Tunnel

2009-06-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

At around 4:00 pm today, the High Rolls Fire Department responded to an overturned pick-up truck on Highway 82 just west of the High Rolls Tunnel. One person sustained injuries and was removed from the vehicle by rescue personnel. It is suspected the accident was due to a large boulder rolling from above the road level and striking the vehicle. Highway 82 was closed approximately 1 1/2 hours.

Situation Report: Canyon Rescue at High Rolls Tunnel

2009-06-21T17:16:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Night, June 20th, High Rolls Fire Department was called to rescue an injured hiker at the bottom of Fresnal Canyon, in the creekbed. This area is extremely rough and consists of a large box canyon with extremely steep sides. No regular access points are available. With the help of local fire departments and regional SAR teams, High Rolls Fire completed a successful rescue of this hiker using life safety ropes and low angle rescue techniques. This involved a night-time hoist of 400ft or more to the High Rolls Tunnel overlook.

Note to Fire Department members:
Great job working together on the Mountain Rescue response last night. Nerves got a little frayed, and plans did not always work out as expected, but we all pulled together and got it done. Everybody came back safely and the patient was removed from a precarious position.

Thanks for the hard work!

July Training: FIT-5 Interior Attack

2009-06-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

The manufacturer's representative for the FIT-5 units will be in our area to conduct training on July 15th, 2009. This training is scheduled to be conducted at the Otero County fire training facility on Hwy 70 , west of Alamogordo. This training coincides with the scheduled meeting of the Otero County Firefighter's Association, which begins at 8 pm. Members from other fire department's and agencies are invited to observe.

Members, we will need at least four personnel with full structural PPE in order to conduct this training/demo. As many personnel who can attend the better. Please let the Fire Chief know if you plan to attend. We will need one engine (610 or 614) and four personnel with PPE to be there by 5:30pm to get set up for the night's training. We will also need someone to document the training with pictures or video.

Mental Exercise #1

2009-06-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

How would you handle this situation...

How would you lift this load off the driver? What options are available? Is the crane the only option? How would we handle this if it occurred 15 minutes from now in our district?

New Technology for High Rolls FD

2009-06-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

The High Rolls Fire Department has bought two FIT-5 devices. The FIT-5 is a Fire Interruption device that is used to knock down a fire until additional water and hose-lines can be moved into place. It is a large round pack that is tossed into the structure near the seat of the fire. It operates by ejecting fire suppressing chemicals and smothers the fire in the incipient stage. It can be deployed by a single firefighter, and can delay progress of a working fire long enough that hose-lines can be put into place for final extinguishment.

This device is scheduled to be placed into service first at the Piney Woods, and Haynes Canyon substations.

Training Announcement

2009-06-06T18:37:00.001-07:00

Training is scheduled for Tuesday, 8th June, at the Main station. The topic will be basic Wildland Fire skills.