Governor Polis met with public safety leaders at Loveland Fire Station 7 to discuss wildfire response efforts across the Front Range and Western Slope.
The focus was on protecting Coloradans, communities, and lands in Larimer, Jefferson, Delta, and Boulder Counties.
Key attendees included Congressman Joe Neguse, Boulder County Sheriff Curtis Johnson, Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen, Department of Public Safety Director Stan Hilkey, Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control Wildland Fire Management Section Chief Vaughn Jones, Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Kevin Klein, and U.S. Forest Service Regional Forester Troy Heithecker.
Governor Polis emphasized the dedication of first responders: “Our brave first responders are working around the clock to fight the fires across the Front Range and Western Slope to protect Coloradans, our communities, property, and lands.”
He also noted the state’s support, including the involvement of the National Guard following his authorization.
Governor Polis has given verbal authorization for Colorado National Guard members to support firefighting efforts for the Currant Creek, Alexander Mountain, Stone Mountain, and Quarry Fires.
The Colorado State Emergency Operations Center is collaborating with local emergency managers to assess and provide necessary assistance.
The National Guard is prepared to help with security and traffic control in coordination with local law enforcement.
In response to the new Quarry Fire in Jefferson County, which began Tuesday night, Governor Polis issued a verbal declaration of a disaster emergency.
This action activates the State Emergency Operations Plan, directing the Department of Public Safety and its divisions to take necessary actions for response, recovery, and mitigation.
Governor Polis visited a Red Cross evacuation shelter at Foundation Church in Loveland, where he thanked volunteers and met with evacuated residents.
These shelters provide essential services such as meals, snacks, water, minor medical assistance, and overnight shelter.
Over 60 volunteer organizations, with more than 100 volunteers, are supporting the shelters across the Front Range and Western Slope.
Later today, Governor Polis plans to visit the Stone Mountain Command Center in Lyons to express gratitude to emergency responders working on the Stone Mountain Fire.
The State of Colorado is employing a comprehensive approach to manage and contain multiple fires, including the Stone Mountain Fire in Boulder County, the Currant Creek Fire in Delta County, the Alexander Mountain Fire in Larimer County, the Ed Joe Draw Fire in San Miguel County, and the Quarry Fire in Jefferson County.
Resources deployed include the FIREHAWK® and crew, three air tankers, two multi-mission aircraft, two Type-2 helicopters and crews, fire engines, firefighter crews, intelligence and management support, communication support, road closure assistance, traffic control, shelter and volunteer support, veterinary medical teams, and drone operations.
Federal aviation resources and a Douglas County helicopter are also part of the efforts, with resources being swiftly relocated as needed.
