**Gila National Forest Crews Trained, Equipped and Ready as Fire Season Approaches**

LAS CRUCES – Firefighting resources across the Gila National Forest have been trained, reviewed, and positioned for the upcoming wildfire season, according to forest officials.

The Gila National Forest announced that multiple interagency crews and specialized equipment are on hand and prepared to respond quickly to wildland fires as conditions become warmer and drier across southwestern New Mexico. Fire managers recently assessed the readiness of key teams, including the Gila Hotshots and the Gila Helitack Crew, to ensure personnel and equipment meet operational standards. The helitack crew also conducted drills to practice preparing cargo sling loads and other essential response procedures.

Officials report the forest currently maintains two interagency hotshot crews, four 10-person initial-attack hand crews, and nine wildland-fire engine crews ready for deployment. Aviation support includes one Type 1 large helicopter and one Type 3 small helicopter. In addition, three unmanned aerial systems, commonly referred to as drones, along with a trained pilot, are available to assist with fire detection, mapping, and operational support.

Support infrastructure is also in place to sustain firefighting operations. The Silver City Interagency Dispatch Center, Airtanker Base, and Incident Support Cache have all been confirmed ready to provide coordination, air support, and logistical supplies during wildfire incidents.

Forest officials are reminding the public that **Stage 1 fire restrictions remain in effect** on the Gila National Forest. The restrictions are intended to reduce the risk of human-caused fires during the early part of the fire season, and visitors are encouraged to review current rules before heading into forest areas.

Additional details about fire restrictions and preparedness efforts are available on the Gila National Forest website.

By John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications, LLC – [john@bravomic.com](mailto:john@bravomic.com)