Rio Rancho Fire and Rescue

This afternoon, following heavy rain, a concerned citizen reported several ducklings that had fallen through a storm drain grate and were unable to get out.

E7 and BC1 responded to the area, removed the grate, and safely rescued the ducklings. Once they were out of the drain, the ducklings were reunited with their waiting mother and continued on their way.

We appreciate the citizen who took the time to call and look out for these little ones. Sometimes the smallest calls can make a big difference. 🦆🚒

Our in-house Advanced EMT class is wrapping up their IV skills training this week. Students spent the afternoon sharpening their vascular access techniques with plenty of hands-on practice, including a few less conventional scenarios designed to challenge their adaptability and critical thinking.

Building confidence through repetition and realistic training helps ensure our providers are prepared for whatever they encounter in the field.

This afternoon, crews at Station 2C were conducting training on safe roof operations. As fate would have it, it seems that every time we train on a topic, we get an opportunity shortly afterward to apply those principles in the field.

Engine 10 and Rescue 2 responded into the county for reports of a landspout tornado that had torn the roof from a single-wide mobile home. While on scene, crews were able to continue discussions on roof construction and collapse considerations using a real-world example.

The structure was turned over to homeowners, no injuries were reported.

Please join us in congratulating Deputy Chief James Bailey on his retirement after more than 20 years of dedicated service to RRFR.

Throughout his career, Deputy Chief Bailey served our community and department in many roles, including Firefighter, Paramedic, Captain, Battalion Chief, and ultimately Deputy Chief. He was a founding member of the department’s Heavy Technical Rescue Team and played a pivotal role in advancing our organization through the development and implementation of our data collection and statistical analysis systems. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on RRFR.

Beyond his many accomplishments, he played a key role in fostering the positive culture that makes RRFR what it is today. His mentorship, experience, sense of humor, and steady presence helped shape generations of firefighters and leaders within our department.

His contributions to RRFR will continue to be felt for years to come, and his absence will be deeply felt by those who have had the privilege of serving alongside him.

We thank Deputy Chief Bailey for his years of service, dedication, and leadership, and we wish him all the best in this well-earned retirement.

Today, Rio Rancho Fire Rescue was proud to join our partners at the Rio Rancho Police Department for the Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting Special Olympics New Mexico.

Together, we carried the Flame of Hope to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and support the incredible athletes of Special Olympics. The Torch Run brings law enforcement, fire service, and communities together in support of athletes who inspire us with their courage, determination, and perseverance.

Thank you to everyone who participated, cheered us on, and continues to support this amazing cause. We are stronger when we work together, and today was a great reminder of what can be accomplished through partnership, service, and community.

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. 🇺🇸

This week, RRFR crews have been training on the operation and rehabilitation of our new electric STIHL chainsaws and K12 saws as we begin placing them on all front-line engines.

These tools offer several benefits to our crews, including reduced maintenance needs due to fewer combustion components, lower fuel costs, quicker deployment without additional startup procedures, and cleaner storage within apparatus compartments.

Beginning tomorrow, these saws will officially be placed into service on our engines as part of RRFR’s continued commitment to efficiency, reliability, and modernizing our operations.