CFD Sends Crew to Wildfire Response, Joins Regional Donation Drive

Published on July 28, 2026

As wildfires continue to impact communities across the region, the Caldwell Fire Department has deployed firefighters to assist with suppression efforts while also joining a regional donation drive to support fire agencies battling the ongoing fires.

Earlier this week, the Caldwell Fire Department deployed one squad as part of an organized Task Force to Silver City on an immediate need assignment for structure protection. The team is assigned to the Big Grass Incident, which crossed into Idaho earlier this week and is being managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Idaho Department of Lands. The deployment may last up to 14 days.

"Our firefighters are proud to answer the call wherever they're needed, whether that's here at home or helping neighboring communities during a major wildfire," said Fire Chief Bryan Daniels. "We're fortunate to have the depth to send experienced personnel while continuing to provide the same level of service to the citizens of Caldwell."

As wildfire activity continues across the region, firefighters are working long hours in challenging conditions to protect lives, property, and natural resources. Although federally managed incidents receive logistical support, the high number of fires and personnel assigned across the region means resources can become stretched.

While donations of bottled water, electrolyte drinks, individually packaged snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, body wipes, and other firefighter essentials are welcome, the greatest current need is financial support to help offset fuel costs for responding fire agencies.

Donations may be dropped off at:

Caldwell Fire Department Station 1
310 S. 7th Ave.
Caldwell, ID 83605

Community members may also support the effort through the Venmo and Amazon Wishlist QR codes featured on the donation drive flyer.

Financial donations will directly benefit Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs) and fire departments across Eastern Oregon and Western Idaho, including Vale, Ironside, Burnt River, Jordan Valley, Juntura, Huntington, and any other agency requiring assistance. Funds raised will be sent directly to participating fuel companies to help cover the immediate fuel costs associated with wildfire response, helping keep apparatus and equipment operating where they are needed most.

"Wildfires don't recognize county or state lines, and neither does the fire service," said Chief Bryan Daniels, Caldwell Fire Department. "Our firefighters and our neighboring departments answer the call whenever communities are threatened. While incident management teams provide tremendous support, the current demand has stretched resources across the region. This donation drive is an opportunity for our community to stand behind those on the front lines and help ensure they have the supplies they need to continue protecting lives, property, and our natural resources."

For questions about the donation drive, contact: Bianca Stevenson at bstevenson@cityofcaldwell.org or 208-504-7651