West Valley Fire Rescue

West Valley Fire Rescue Incident Update

Today, West Valley Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire in the North Valley. A detached shop was fully involved when the first units arrived on scene.

Crews were also faced with an additional hazard when a 125-gallon propane tank vented as designed but became stuck open, creating increased risk for firefighters operating nearby.

We would like to thank Montana Propane, NorthWestern Energy gas and electric crews, the City of Helena Fire Department, VA Fire Department, East Valley Fire Department, Tri-Lakes Fire Department, and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance and teamwork throughout the incident.

We even had the opportunity to pull retired Chief Shepherd out of retirement for a bit to hook up to the hydrant and run an engine pump until enough firefighters arrived on scene to take over. Thanks Shep!

Thankfully, no one was injured. The detached shop was a complete loss, but Montana Propane helped facilitate moving the propane tank to a remote location where it could be safely emptied and secured.

Incidents like this are a reminder of the value of strong partnerships and mutual aid. Thank you to all of the firefighters, deputies, utility crews, and support personnel who responded and worked together to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.

🚒🤝🔥

Last night was a great reminder of what makes the fire service strong. 🚒

We had the opportunity to train alongside Tri-Lakes VFD and East Valley Fire Department, bringing crews and equipment together for a hands-on training exercise out in the field.

From pump operations to apparatus capabilities, it wasn’t just about running drills—it was about learning how each department operates, what tools we all bring to the table, and building those relationships that matter when the tones drop for real.

There’s a lot of value in getting to know the people behind the gear. When we train together, we respond better together. 🤝

Appreciate everyone who took the time to come out, put in the work, and continue sharpening their skills.

Stronger together. Better prepared. Always ready. 🔥

🚨 Heads up, Greater Helena area! 🌲🔥

The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest will be conducting a **prescribed burn in the Grizzly Gulch area on April 9–10**. You’ll likely see smoke (and possibly flames), which may be very visible around town 👀

This is a planned, controlled burn—no need for alarm—but you may notice smoky conditions in and around the area 🌫️

Please help spread the word so folks don’t mistake it for a wildfire! 🙌

Prescribed burn notice -

The Forest Service is planning a 330-acre prescribed burn two miles southwest of Helena off of Grizzly Gulch road on Thursday, April 9. The burn may extend into Friday, April 10 depending on conditions.

The Mini-Horse prescribed burn will incorporate lands between Show-Me-the-Horse Trail and Mini Ridge Trail systems. Trail users should choose alternative routes during burn operations on Thursday/Friday.

Please drive slow on Grizzly Gulch Road during this time period as fire personnel will be accessing the site along this road and visibility may be reduced. Residents and visitors in Helena may see/smell smoke during this window into the weekend.

Visit: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/mthlf-helenalewis-and-clark-nf-rx-fires/prescribed-burn-planned-for-thursday-april-9-and-friday-april-10-2026-04-06-2026 for more information on planned operations.

Visit: https://www.lccountymt.gov/Government/Public-Health/Environmental-Health/Air-Quality-in-the-Helena-Valley for community smoke resources.