http://www.lasvegasnm.gov/departments/fire_department.php, https://www.communityconnect.io/info/nm-cityoflasvegas

City of Las Vegas Fire Department, 155 Bridge Street, Las Vegas, NM (2026)

09/12/2026

Smoke will continue to be visible from the Frijoles Fire Santa Fe, N.M.,

September 11, 2026 - Hotter and drier weather as well as available fuel on the eastern edge of the fire is contributing to the increased fire activity. Fire is making its way into unburned pine within several drainages on the eastern edge of the fire. This available and receptive fuel will continue to consume putting up additional smoke. The fire is burning into the Pecos Wilderness towards Sierra Mosca. Currently the fire does not pose any risks to people and property on the eastern edge. The next update will be released on
Monday, September 14th, 2026.

Ongoing & Planned Operations: The fire is currently 15,546 acres and 79% contained, with 58 personnel assigned to the fire. Repair work from suppression damage continues as firefighters continue to assess safe access and tactics to fully suppress the fire within the rugged and hazardous terrain of the Pecos Wilderness.

The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team will continue assessments under the management of the local forest unit. The Frijoles Fire information phone line as well as the Frijoles Fire incident email will be available for information regarding the BAER assessment.

Air Quality & Smoke: Smoke may also settle at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the communities of Espanola, Santa Cruz, Chimayo, Cordova, Nambe, Pojoaque and Tesuque may experience smoke settling in the evenings and early mornings. Smoke will be visible from those communities as well as from Los Alamos and Santa Fe.

Safety: The temporary forest area closure will be terminated tomorrow Saturday, September 12, 2026.

While the area is now open to the public, we urge that visitors be aware of the fire traffic in the area.

Firefighter and public safety are the number one priority use caution as fire vehicles and heavy equipment are present near the fire.

Unauthorized drone use can impede firefighting operations and presents a risk to firefighter safety.

****The general area for smoke has increased due to wind speeds to include the Las Vegas area.

09/11/2026

Twenty-five years ago today, FDNY Chief Peter J. Ganci Jr. went to work responsible for roughly 11,000 firefighters. A fire chief carries responsibility for operations, training, staffing, budgets, emergency response and the decisions that keep an entire department moving—but above all of it is the responsibility to protect the firefighters entrusted to their leadership and do everything possible to get them home.

Eleven thousand people. Eleven thousand families. Eleven thousand men and women whose safety ultimately came back to him.

Chief Ganci once referred to those firefighters as his “children.” And on September 11, 2001, his actions showed exactly what he meant.

When the World Trade Center was attacked, Ganci did not stay behind at headquarters. He went to the scene and took command alongside some of the most experienced leaders in the FDNY. He knew what was at stake. He knew how many of his firefighters were inside those buildings. And he knew that every decision being made could mean the difference between someone coming home or not.

Then the South Tower collapsed.

Chief Ganci survived.

For a brief moment, he had made it through something almost impossible to comprehend. But his people were still inside. Firefighters were missing. Firefighters were injured. Calls for help were still coming in.

His sons later explained that he stayed because he felt responsible for his men. One said simply, “He chose his guys.” Another said his father felt he had to remain there until the last firefighter was out.

That tells you almost everything you need to know about the man.

Chief Ganci did not look at the thousands of firefighters under his command as names on a roster. They were his people. He had spent his career looking after them, leading them and carrying the responsibility that comes with sending firefighters into danger.

After surviving the South Tower collapse, he could have moved farther away.

He didn’t.

He continued directing resources and turned his attention back toward the firefighters who still needed help.

Twenty-eight minutes later, the North Tower collapsed. Chief Peter J. Ganci Jr. was killed. He survived one tower coming down. His people still needed him.

So he stayed. That is why his story matters.

Not simply because he was the highest-ranking uniformed member of the FDNY to die that day. Not because of the title he carried. But because when the worst possible moment came, he showed what he believed leadership meant.

Be there. Know your people. Take responsibility for them. Never ask them to face something you would not face yourself. And when they need you, stay.

Chief Ganci once said he hoped he would be remembered simply as “a good fireman” and “a good Chief.”

Twenty-five years later, that may be the best way to remember him.

But his story also tells us something bigger about what it means to be a firefighter.

To be a firefighter means answering a call without knowing what will be waiting when you arrive.

It means walking into places other people are trying desperately to escape.

It means carrying another person’s worst day on your shoulders and still doing the job.

It means trusting the person beside you with your life and knowing they are trusting you with theirs.

It means missed holidays, sleepless nights, calls you never forget and moments that follow you home long after the engine is back in quarters.

It means families who hear the tones too.

They may not climb on the truck, but they live with the reality of where that truck is going.

They watch someone they love leave the station knowing there is always a chance the call could ask more than anyone is prepared to give.

That is the part the public does not always see. A fire engine is not just carrying firefighters.

It is carrying husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters and friends.

It is carrying people who have chosen a profession that sometimes asks them to put a stranger’s life ahead of their own.

And on September 11, 2001, 343 members of the FDNY did exactly that.

They went up.
They stayed.
They led.
They carried people out.
They searched for people they had never met.
And many of them never came home.

And they were not alone.

That day, 23 members of the New York City Police Department and 37 members of the Port Authority Police Department also lost their lives, along with EMS personnel and other public safety professionals who answered the call, helped evacuate civilians, treated the injured, searched for survivors and continued working in conditions almost impossible to imagine.

Different uniforms. Different agencies. Different responsibilities.

But when people needed them, they went.

That is why we still say their names 25 years later. That is why we still tell Chief Ganci’s story.

Because as long as there are firefighters, police officers, EMS professionals and public safety personnel willing to answer the call, the lessons of that day still matter.

🇺🇸 Leadership still matters.

🇺🇸 Courage still matters.

🇺🇸 Brotherhood and sisterhood still matter.

🇺🇸 And coming home still matters.

Today, the Las Vegas Fire Department, together with the Las Vegas Police Department and the City of Las Vegas remember Chief Peter J. Ganci Jr., his command staff, the 343 FDNY members who made the ultimate sacrifice, the 23 NYPD officers, the 37 Port Authority Police Department officers, the EMS personnel and other public safety professionals who gave their lives, every first responder who answered the call and every family forever changed that morning.

And for every firefighter and first responder who puts on the uniform today, there is a simple promise carried forward from that morning:

✅ If you need us, we will come.

✅ If one of ours needs us, we will stay.

And if history asks whether we remembered those who went before us, the answer will always be the same.

We remember.

We honor them.

And we will never forget. 🇺🇸

343

23 NYPD

37 PAPD

9 • 11 • 2001 — 9 • 11 • 2026

25 YEARS. NEVER FORGOTTEN.

09/07/2026

The Las Vegas Fire Department traces its roots to 1882, when volunteers stepped forward to protect their neighbors and their community. Labor Day would not become a federal holiday until 1894.

Today, we proudly carry that legacy forward.

Our department has changed tremendously over the generations, but what matters most has not: service, sacrifice and pride.

Our firefighters give up holidays, family time and sleep to answer the call when our community needs them most. Today is no different—our crews are on duty and ready.

This Labor Day, we honor all hardworking men and women, and we remember those who built the department we are proud to represent today.

Built by volunteers. Strengthened by generations. Serving Las Vegas with courage, sacrifice and pride. 🚒🔥❤️

08/28/2026

The Las Vegas Fire Department is currently conducting active fire operations at a structure fire in the 1500 block of South Gonzales Street.

Please avoid the area and allow emergency crews the space needed to safely conduct operations.

Traffic control measures are in place, and motorists should expect delays. Please use alternate routes whenever possible and follow the directions of emergency personnel.

Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

07/04/2026

At approximately 6:55 p.m. this evening, the Las Vegas Fire Department responded to a small fire on the south side of the Gallinas River Bridge near Bridge Street.

Fire crews arrived quickly and contained the fire to an area of approximately 2 by 2 feet before it could spread.

At this time, the fire is not believed to have been caused by fireworks. The preliminary cause is believed to be the improper disposal of a cigarette.

With current hot, dry, and windy conditions, even a small spark can quickly start a dangerous fire. The Las Vegas Fire Department reminds everyone to properly dispose of ci******es and use caution with anything that could create a spark.

Quick reporting is critical. If you see a fire, call 911 immediately. To report suspicious activity or non-emergency concerns, contact Las Vegas Police Department Dispatch at (505) 425-7504. Please remain vigilant and avoid anything that could create a spark. With current hot, dry conditions, even a discarded cigarette can quickly start a dangerous fire.

07/03/2026

🔥Brush Fire Near Mora Street Started by Aerial Firework

At approximately 9:11 p.m. this evening, the Las Vegas Fire Department responded to a brush fire in the Mora Street area that was determined to have been caused by an illegal aerial firework.

The fire started in a small vacant lot surrounded by homes and was quickly extinguished before it could spread. Thanks to vigilant neighbors who reported the fire immediately and the rapid response of firefighters, what could have become a devastating neighborhood fire was prevented. Although the fire was determined to have been caused by an illegal aerial firework, the exact location from which it was launched could not be determined.

“This could have ended very differently,” said Fire Chief Steven Spann. “One illegal aerial firework is all it takes to put lives, homes, and our community at risk. Together, we can make this Fourth of July a safe one by leaving illegal fireworks behind and celebrating responsibly.”

There will be ZERO tolerance. There will be NO warnings.

Fire and law enforcement personnel will continue proactive patrols throughout the holiday. Anyone found possessing or using illegal fireworks within the City of Las Vegas will receive immediate citations, and illegal fireworks will be confiscated.

If you witness illegal fireworks, call Las Vegas Police Dispatch at (505) 425-7504 immediately. If you see smoke, flames, or an active fire, call 911.

07/02/2026

One illegal firework is all it takes.

One spark can ignite dry grass, threaten homes, put first responders in danger, and jeopardize everything our community has worked so hard to protect since the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.

This Independence Day, the City of Las Vegas asks you to make the safe choice and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Join us for the City of Las Vegas Professional Fireworks Display at the New Mexico Highlands University Gene Torres Golf Course on Saturday, July 4, at dusk.

Our fireworks show is carefully planned by licensed pyrotechnicians and supported by firefighters and emergency personnel. The launch site is prepared well in advance to reduce fire risk, equipment is staged for safety, and weather conditions are monitored before and throughout the event.

That is the difference a professional display makes. You can still experience the excitement and tradition of fireworks while knowing every reasonable precaution has been taken to protect our community.

The City of Las Vegas continues to experience severe drought and an elevated wildfire risk. That is why aerial fireworks and ground-audible fireworks remain prohibited within city limits under City Ordinance No. 238. Open burning is also prohibited year-round.

Throughout the holiday weekend, City staff, firefighters, and law enforcement officers will be actively enforcing these laws. There will be no warnings for illegal fireworks. Violations may result in citations.

Celebrate with your family. Celebrate with your neighbors. Celebrate safely. Watch the professionals light up the sky and help us protect the place we all call home.

07/01/2026

‼️We’ve Been Getting a Lot of Questions About Fireworks... Here’s What You Need to Know.‼️

As we head into the Fourth of July, we've received many questions about reporting illegal fireworks and when to call law enforcement.

🔴Call 9-1-1 ONLY if there's an emergency—such as a fire, someone is injured, or there's an immediate danger to people or property.

🔵If you're reporting illegal fireworks or a fireworks ordinance violation, DO NOT call 911. Instead, contact Las Vegas Police Dispatch by calling 505-425-7504, Option 1.

When you call, please provide the exact address or nearest intersection whenever possible. Illegal fireworks can be difficult to locate because they're often discharged for only a few seconds before those responsible leave the area. The more accurate the location, the better chance officers and firefighters have of locating the violation and taking enforcement action.

The City of Las Vegas enforces its fireworks ordinance year-round, and enforcement will be significantly increased throughout the Independence Day holiday. There will be no warnings for prohibited fireworks. Violators are subject to citation and penalties of up to a $500 fine, up to 90 days in jail, or both, under City Ordinance No. 238.

Thank you for helping the Las Vegas Police Department and Las Vegas Fire Department protect our community, reduce wildfire risk, and keep everyone safe this Fourth of July.

06/30/2026

City of Las Vegas Announces Zero-Tolerance Fireworks Enforcement

LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Public safety remains the City of Las Vegas' highest priority as residents and visitors prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July. With severe drought conditions and an elevated risk of wildfire, the City is taking a firm stance on illegal fireworks. Residents and visitors are expected to comply with all local fireworks laws, and violations will be met with strict enforcement.

According to the NOAA National Integrated Drought Information System, San Miguel County, including the City of Las Vegas, is currently experiencing D2 – Severe Drought conditions. The City of Las Vegas is also under Stage 2 Water Restrictions, requiring increased water conservation due to limited water supplies.

With extremely dry grasses and vegetation throughout the area, a single illegal firework can quickly start a wildfire. These conditions leave no room for complacency. Residents are expected to comply with all City fireworks regulations. Illegal fireworks put lives, property, and first responders at risk and will be enforced accordingly.

The City of Las Vegas Fireworks Ordinance (City Code Chapter 238) is one of the most restrictive in New Mexico (See attached graphic). Pursuant to the New Mexico Fireworks Licensing and Safety Act (NMSA 1978, Sections 60-2C-1 through 60-2C-11), municipalities are authorized under Section 60-2C-7(C) to prohibit aerial fireworks and ground audible devices by local ordinance.

The following fireworks are prohibited within the City of Las Vegas:
•Aerial fireworks, including bottle rockets, Roman candles, missiles, helicopters, reloadable mortars, aerial shells, mines, and any device designed to launch into the air.
•Ground audible devices, including firecrackers, chasers, and any fireworks that produce loud explosive reports.

The sale of these prohibited fireworks is also illegal within city limits. In addition, open burning is prohibited year-round under City Code Chapter 154 to help reduce the risk of preventable fires.

Residents should be aware that fireworks prohibited within the City of Las Vegas may still be legally sold in the unincorporated areas of San Miguel County and elsewhere in New Mexico where local ordinances permit their sale. However, purchasing these fireworks outside city limits does not make them legal to possess or use within the City of Las Vegas.

The City will maintain zero-tolerance enforcement throughout the Independence Day holiday. The Las Vegas Police Department, Las Vegas Fire Department, and Code Enforcement Division will actively patrol and enforce City Code Chapter 238.

Individuals found using or possessing prohibited fireworks within city limits will be cited, and illegal fireworks will be confiscated. Violators may face fines of up to $500, imprisonment for up to 90 days, or both, as authorized by City Code Chapter 238. Anyone responsible for starting a fire may also be held financially responsible for fire suppression costs, property damage, restitution, and any additional civil or criminal penalties authorized under New Mexico law.

The City needs the public's help in identifying and reporting illegal fireworks. Because fireworks are often discharged in multiple locations across the community, it can be difficult for officers to pinpoint the exact source of the activity. Prompt and accurate reports from residents help law enforcement respond more quickly and effectively. Anyone who witnesses the use of illegal fireworks within the City of Las Vegas is encouraged to contact the Las Vegas Police Department Non-Emergency Dispatch at (505) 425-7504, Option 1. Call 9-1-1 only to report an active fire or another life-threatening emergency.

Rather than risking a citation or causing a wildfire, the City encourages everyone to attend the professional Fourth of July fireworks display on Saturday, July 4, at dusk at the NMHU Golf Course. The show will be conducted by a licensed professional fireworks company in a carefully planned and controlled environment with firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and other public safety personnel on site.

"Our community's safety comes first," said Fire Chief Steven Spann. "There will be no warnings for illegal fireworks this holiday. If you choose to violate the ordinance, you should expect to be cited. We encourage everyone to celebrate safely by attending the City's professional fireworks display and helping us protect our community."

"We all enjoy celebrating the Fourth of July, but no celebration is worth putting lives or homes at risk," said Police Chief Caleb Marquez. "Help us protect our community by following the law, making smart decisions, and leaving the fireworks to the professionals whenever possible."

While the City discourages the use of fireworks due to current drought and fire conditions, residents choosing to use allowable fireworks should do so responsibly. Use fireworks only on a non-combustible surface away from dry grass, brush, vehicles, and structures. Keep a bucket of water nearby and use it wisely, as the City is currently under Stage 2 Water Restrictions. Under the New Mexico Fireworks Licensing and Safety Act (NMSA 1978, Chapter 60, Article 2C), only individuals 16 years of age or older may use fireworks. Never use fireworks while intoxicated, discharge fireworks from or at a motor vehicle, or relight a malfunctioning firework. Completely soak used fireworks in water before disposing of them. If a fire starts, call 911 immediately.

The City of Las Vegas thanks residents and visitors for their cooperation in helping prevent fires and ensuring a safe Independence Day for everyone.

05/24/2026

Watch the highlights from the 2026 Las Vegas Firefighter Badge Pinning Ceremony, held May 22.

Congratulations to our six newest Firefighters and EMTs:

🔥 Firefighter Michael Rutherford #44
🔥 Firefighter Diego Chavez #47
🔥 Firefighter Luke Ortiz #52
🔥 Firefighter Marcus Rasco #53
🔥 Firefighter William Mears #42
🔥 Firefighter Hunter Watts #51

Six individuals answered a calling greater than themselves. The badge placed on their chest represents courage, sacrifice, honor, and the promise to protect others during their hardest moments.

Your department is proud. Your families stand behind you. Your community is counting on you.

Welcome to the LVFD brotherhood and welcome to the best job in the world.

City of Las Vegas Fire Department

09/12/2026

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