The Formation of Eagle River Fire Protection District

In the year 2000, the residents of Town of Avon and multiple metro district communities that now are part of the Eagle River Fire Protection District, recognized the critical need for enhanced fire protection and emergency services within their communities. Responding to this need, a pivotal community vote was held to garner support for the establishment of a dedicated fire protection district.

With resounding approval from the community, the Eagle River Fire Protection District was officially formed in 2001. This marked the beginning of a new era in the region’s emergency services, solidifying the commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and the natural environment from the ravages of fire and other emergencies.

Since its inception, the Eagle River Fire Protection District has continuously evolved to meet the ever-changing needs and challenges of the community. In 2012 the Fire District transitioned from a Student Resident program to a full-time firefighting force. This was done to meet the increasing call volume due to the local growth of our communities and Colorado State Training Requirements to ensure a timely and effective response to emergencies. Additionally, through strategic planning, rigorous training, and investment in state-of-the-art equipment and technology, the district has remained at the forefront of firefighting and emergency response.

In 2016 a $25M bond was approved for two new ERFPD fire stations and a training facility. The Avon Public Safety Facility was built in collaboration with the Town of Avon Police Department to meet the ever-growing needs of both agencies. The Avon Public Safety Facility now serves as an example to other mountain communities that separate emergency services agencies can work together to meet the challenge of limited space while being fiscally responsible to the communities. After the completion of the Avon Public Safety Facility ERFPD started the construction of its new Edwards Fire Station and the new home of the Administration Offices. The Edwards Fire Station was completed in 2018 along with the first training facility for the Fire District.

Over the years, the district has had a well-defined scope of services, encompassing not only fire suppression but also emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, technical rescue, wildfire response and community education and outreach initiatives. This comprehensive approach reflects the district’s unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors alike.

Furthermore, the Eagle River Fire Protection District has forged strong partnerships with neighboring agencies, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual aid that enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency response efforts across the region.

As the Eagle River community continues to grow and evolve, so too does the Eagle River Fire Protection District, steadfast in its mission to serve and protect with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Through the years, the district has upheld its commitment to excellence, earning the trust and gratitude of those it serves. With a proud legacy of service behind it and a vision of continued innovation and leadership ahead, the Eagle River Fire Protection District remains a cornerstone of safety and security in the community.