About CRFR's Wildland Division

Wildland Division Mission Statement:
“The mission of Colorado River Wildland Fire is to provide wildland fire suppression and hazardous fuels reduction to the Colorado River Fire Protection District and to provide firefighting resources to local, regional and national incident management teams.”

Our Story

CRFR's Wildland Division was formed in the spring of 2018 in order to provide the Colorado River Fire Protection District with dedicated wildland fire resources.  At it's infancy, the Wildland Division was comprised of two Type 3 wildlland fire engines and six personnel. Since 2018, we've grown our fleet and capabilities. We presently employ seven full time and 13 seasonal emoloyees. These firefighters staff two Type 3 and one Type 6 wildland engines. In addition to the three engines, CRFR is proud to host the Burning Mountain Wildland Fire Module (WFM2). The WFM2 is a specialized 10 person hand crew. During fire season, the Division provides firefighting resources to the local, regional and national incident management teams. Outside of fire season, the Division provides hazardous fuel mitigation to the Colorado River Fire Protection Distrcit, which includes the towns of Rifle, Silt and New Castle.

Training

Aerial view of workers using ropes to navigate down a steep slope near vehicles and power lines.

Each season starts with a minumum of 80 hours of critical training and refreshers. During this time, we focus on basic firefighting tactics, equipment proficiency, physical fitness, leadership, vehicle familiarzation and safety. We require professional development for everyone on the division from the new Firefighter to the Division Chief.  Employees are expected to grow professionally utilizing on-the-job training, the NWCG curriculum and task books.

 

 

 

 

 Physical Fitness

A group of individuals engaged in a training exercise outdoors near a building, with mountains in the background.

Fireline safety and efficiency  depends heavily on a strong mind and therefore a strong body. Wildland firefighters are subjected to extreme physical demands, which involve navigating rugged and steep terrain while carrying heavy gear such as chainsaws, hose packs, fuel and personal protective equipment. The work is inherently strenuous and often occurs in high temperatures and at altitude, requiring exceptional cardiovascular endurance to maintain high-intensity labor for extended shifts that can last 12 to 24 hours. At CRWF, every day begins with physical training (PT). We have a dedicated weight room and cardio bay.  In addition to the Work Capacity Test, Division members must pass an annual physical fitness test (PFT). 

CRFR Wildland Division PFT (max effort test):

  1. Minimum 4 pull ups in 1 minute
  2. Minimum 30 push ups in 2 minutes
  3. Minimum 50 crunches in 2 minutes
  4. 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or less

Recruitment

Recruitment for the division is conducted year-round as needed. Please visit the job opportunities page and/or our Instagram page for any vacancy announcements.