Fort Carson Fire: Updates & Containment Efforts

George Douglas 24 May 2025

How does a sprawling military installation like Fort Carson, Colorado, balance the crucial need for live-fire training with the ever-present risk of wildfires? The answer lies in a dedicated team of firefighters and emergency personnel, constantly vigilant and ready to respond at a moment's notice.

Fort Carson, a vital training ground for the U.S. Army, sits nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, a landscape prone to dry conditions and susceptible to the rapid spread of fire. The delicate balance between essential training exercises and environmental protection is a constant challenge, one that Fort Carsons Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) tackles head-on. This was dramatically illustrated in a recent series of fire incidents that tested the mettle of the F&ES team and underscored the importance of their mission.

Organization:	Fort Carson Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES)
Location:	Fort Carson, Colorado
Mission:	Provide comprehensive fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue services to Fort Carson and surrounding communities.
Responsibilities:	Protecting lives and property through fire prevention, fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials mitigation, technical rescue operations, and public education.
Website:	https://home.army.mil/carson/index.php/about/Garrison/DES/fire-department

On a Tuesday afternoon, the alarm bells rang out at Fort Carsons F&ES headquarters. A fire, sparked within the confines of a training range (Range 143, south of the main post), was rapidly spreading. Fueled by dry conditions and propelled by wind, the blaze quickly consumed hundreds of acres, growing to a staggering 776 acres within hours. As plumes of smoke billowed into the sky, the highly trained firefighters of Fort Carson sprang into action.

Utilizing a combination of ground crews, specialized fire engines, and aerial support, the firefighters battled the flames relentlessly. They worked tirelessly, digging fire breaks, dousing hot spots, and coordinating their efforts to contain the inferno. Within a remarkably short period, they managed to achieve 90% containment, preventing further spread and protecting nearby structures and natural resources.

This incident, dubbed the White Butte Fire, was not an isolated event. Just days later, another fire ignited on post, further stressing the resources of the F&ES. This second fire, though smaller at 106 acres, presented its own set of challenges. Smoldering for days, it required constant monitoring and persistent efforts to ensure it didn't flare up again. The firefighters remained vigilant, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding Fort Carson and its surrounding community. These back-to-back incidents underscored the demanding and often dangerous nature of their work.

The Fort Carson F&ES not only battles wildfires. They provide a full spectrum of emergency services to the military community and beyond. This includes emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, technical rescue, and fire prevention education. They collaborate with local fire departments, forming a crucial network of first responders in the southern El Paso County region. The South Group, as this collaborative is known, comprises six fire departments working together to enhance wildfire response and training capabilities across the region. This includes Security Fire Department, Stratmoor Hills Fire District, Hanover Fire Department, Fountain Fire Department, Southwest Highway 115 Fire Department, and Fort Carson Fire Department.

Beyond responding to emergencies, the F&ES plays a proactive role in mitigating fire risks. They conduct regular fire drills, training exercises, and public awareness campaigns to educate the community about fire safety. This commitment to prevention is as crucial as their firefighting efforts, forming a comprehensive approach to fire and emergency management.

The Fort Carson F&ES exemplifies the dedication and professionalism required to protect a complex and vital military installation. Their swift response, unwavering commitment, and constant vigilance are essential in safeguarding the lives and property of the Fort Carson community and preserving the delicate balance of the surrounding environment. As Fort Carson continues its crucial training mission, the F&ES stands ready, a vital line of defense against the ever-present threat of wildfire. They are more than firefighters; they are guardians of the mountain post, ensuring its continued operation and the safety of those who call it home. They are an integral part of the fabric of Fort Carson, demonstrating the unwavering commitment to service that defines the spirit of the military community.

For those residing on or visiting Fort Carson, registering weapons is mandatory, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all. Information on weapons registration can be found at the Provost Marshal's office. Further demonstrating their commitment to preparedness, Fort Carson utilizes advanced training systems like the "Call for Fire Trainer," a lightweight and rapidly deployable system that simulates real-world fire support missions, preparing personnel for various scenarios involving current and future munitions. This commitment to realistic training, coupled with their rapid response capabilities, solidifies Fort Carson's F&ES as a leader in military fire and emergency services, a beacon of safety in the shadow of the Rockies.