Boise Fire Department

Boise Fire crews safely rescued a resident from a 3rd-floor apartment window Thursday morning after heavy smoke blocked the building’s stairwell. It happened during an apartment fire in the 3900 block of W. Alpine St.

The fire was upgraded to a full second alarm, bringing multiple companies to the scene. Crews quickly knocked down the fire, keeping most of the damage contained to the apartment of origin and limiting extension to the rest of the building. The resident who was rescued was preparing to jump before firefighters used a ladder to complete the rescue from the top floor. A total of 14 people were displaced, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Boise Fire Dive Team completed the first swift water rescue of the season along the Boise River on Memorial Day. A person fell off a paddleboard near the Baybrook Court Bridge and was hanging onto a tree. Crews were able to safely reach her and help her to shore. Meanwhile, first responders were also able to safely locate another person from the same party on the banks of the river. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the incident is a good reminder that the Boise River is running high, fast, and cold and conditions are not yet suitable for the start of the official float season.

Around 4:15 p.m. Boise Fire responded to a warehouse on the 2700 block of W. Apollo St. The membrane, roof vents and electrical conduit from the flat roof of the building were torn off the building from gusting heavy winds out of the southwest. Staff at the facility was minimal and everyone was able to safely evacuate. Boise PD provided traffic control of the area while Airport operations and Boise Fire personnel from Smokey 7, Engine 7, and Truck 7 investigated the building’s interior, roof and exterior for any additional problems. BPD and fire companies were released at the end of the investigation. Intermountain Gas and Idaho Power also evaluated the building.

One year ago, we said goodbye to retired Boise Firefighter Thad Broadhead. Today, we honor his life, service, and the legacy he left behind.

After 25 years of dedicated service to our community, Thad courageously faced pancreatic cancer. His line of duty death serves as a powerful reminder of the risks firefighters willingly face in service to others.

Busy night in the Sawtooth Wilderness as Boise Fire and the Idaho Air National Guard worked together to rescue a hiker on an ice face.
The Idaho Air National Guard provided the helicopter while Boise Fire deployed a technical rescue medic to perform the technical rescue. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of everyone involved, the hiker was successfully hoisted to safety.

Fire departments are made up of real people, with real struggles.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, we remember Charles ‘Charlie’ Ruffing, who lost his battle with mental health on May, 21, 2019. We honor his memory by continuing to address the emotional challenges that come with being a first responder.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or Text 988.

⬅️ SWIPE to read heartfelt stories from community members about their experiences with Boise firefighters.

This National EMS Week, we’re celebrating the dedicated EMS professionals who provide lifesaving care in our community every single day. ❤️🚑🚒

Boise Fire crews include both paramedics and EMTs who respond to medical emergencies all across the city, in all types of situations.

We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment, as well as for our strong partnership with Ada County Paramedics and their expertise, teamwork and care.

While we’re not in it for recognition, messages like these remind us just how meaningful their work truly is.

Shortly before 9 p.m. on May 16, Boise Fire crews were called to a reported structure fire on the 400 block of S. Bitterroot Dr. Upon arrival, firefighters found the back side of the house on fire, with fire extending into the basement, first and second floors, and the attic.

The call was upgraded to a full assignment and then to a second alarm, bringing Engines 6, 4, 16, 7, 8, 11, 14, and 17; Truck Companies 4 and 7; Ladder 5; and Battalion 2 to the scene.

Fortunately, crews were able to quickly search the home and extinguish the fire through the aggressive efforts of engine and truck companies using multiple hose lines and search teams.

Ada County Paramedics and Boise Police also assisted at the scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation, and another sustained minor burns. The Burnout Fund and the Red Cross are providing assistance to the residents

This week several life-saving and Excellence awards were presented to Boise firefighters.

Anthony Andrisek, Corey Lemay, Cody Wohner, Mike Able, Dylan Forrester, Seth Huskinson, and Max Weaver received ACCESS Life Saving Awards.

Seth Huskinson and Max Weaver also received ACCESS Excellence Awards.

Congratulations to all for your commitment to serving others.