Vail Fire & Emergency Services (VFES) is an all-risk fire department providing fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical services, technical rescue and wildland fire mitigation services. Quality emergency services are an essential component of maintaining Vail’s status as North America’s premier mountain resort community.

Vail Fire & Emergency Services (VFES) was established in 1964. During the first few years of operation, VFES was an all volunteer department. Since then, it has transitioned into a full-time paid fire department, operating out of 3 fire stations, which are located in East Vail, Vail Village and West Vail. VFES serves a population of 4,735 year-round residents, of 20,000 guests daily. VFES responds to approximately 2,000 incidents each year. In addition to service the Town of Vail, VFES responds to incidents on I-70 from mile marker 171-190 as well as incidents occurring on the surrounding White River National Forest. VFES also responds to several neighborhoods that are outside the incorporated limits of the Town of Vail as well as the Vail Mountain Resort.

VFES provides and receives automatic and mutual-aid with all fire districts in Eagle County. VFES is a founding member of the Mountain Area Mutual Aid program which includes Eagle, Summit, Garfield, Pitkin, Routt, Lake and Grand counties. VFES has a total of 44 personnel, which include 12 firefighters, 9 engineers, 9 lieutenants, 3 battalion chiefs, fire marshal, fire inspector, fire chief, administrative assistant, wildland program manager, engine module leader, assistant engine module leader, and 7 seasonal wildland firefighters. VFES operates four all-wheel drive type I engines, one 85' Tower Ladder, one type 3 wildland engine, two type 6 wildland engines, three 4x4 utility trucks and one command vehicle.

As you browse our website, please take time to explore the links on the left side of the webpage, they contain information that describes the services we provide as well as important safety information. While browsing this section, please note that there are several links related to the risk of wildfire. Although many associate Vail with world class skiing, our mild summers are not to be missed. Despite the enjoyable climate, many areas in and around the Town of Vail have been rated as having a high risk for wildfire. It is important to remember that during a wildfire, wind driven embers can ignite homes that are not directly adjacent to wildland fuels. Vail Fire &Emergency Services has trained personnel who can provide a defensible space inspection. Our wildland personnel provide free chipping of slash and brush from June through October. To schedule an appointment, call 970-477-3509.

We consider it a privilege to serve our community. If you would like additional information about any of our programs, please contact us. I can be reached at mnovak@vailgov.com or 970-477-3474. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Letter from the Chief

Fire Chief Mark Novak began his fire service career in San Diego County in 1984 and served with the Tahoe Douglas Fire District in Lake Tahoe, Nevada for 24 years prior to accepting his current position with VFES in 2015.

On behalf of all the members of the Vail Fire & Emergency Services, thank you for taking the time to learn more about our organization. It is our honor and privilege to serve the citizens and visitors of Vail. We are committed to excellence in emergency services. We believe that quality emergency services are an essential component of maintaining Vail’s status as North America’s premier mountain resort community. Our purpose, values and vision provide the foundation for all of our endeavors.

-Mark Novak, Fire Chief

Mission

Prevent loss, serve others, protect & enhance the quality of life.

Values

Virtue/Vision
With respect for the past and an eye towards the future, we stand on a foundation of wisdom, courage, diligence and justice that informs our decision-making and guides our behavior.

Family
Our actions and existence connect us as family to a noble cause. We treat others as we would our own.

Ethical
We are uncompromising in our efforts to do the right thing.

Selfless service
We will sacrifice our comforts, our significance and ourselves to the service and wellbeing of others.

Vision

Vail Fire & Emergency Services will be recognized in our community and region for consistent, rapid response using state of the art equipment and tactics. We are committed to employee development. We will provide a supportive environment promoting physical and mental fitness that allows for growth and competence in the ever-changing fire service. We will strive to become a leader in interagency collaboration and partnership by sharing resources and information.

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