Bexar-Bulverde Fire Department encompasses Special Operations teams who handle high-risk, low-frequency incidents beyond standard fire suppression and EMS. These specialized units undergo continuous and extensive training to manage complicated challenges.
Wildland Operations
Our Wildland Operations division responds to complex wildland fire incidents and other hazards occurring in difficult environments. Wildland response requires specific strategies, mobility, and equipment tailored to natural environments.
Key capabilities include:
- Wildfire suppression: Managing active wildfires using advanced tactics, tools, and coordinated operations.
- Prevention and mitigation: Reducing future fire risk through prescribed burns, vegetation management, and enforcement of burn restrictions.
- Coordination: Working closely with state and regional partners including TIFMAS (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System) and STRAC (South Texas Regional Advisory Council) to support mutual-aid requests for large scale incidents and specialized emergency response operations.
Water Rescue
Our Water Rescue team consists of specially trained firefighters who operate in a wide range of water environments, including rivers, floodwater, and swift water conditions. These incidents are highly unpredictable and require advanced training, special equipment, and precise coordination.
Key capabilities include:
- Extricating victims from moving water, submerged vehicles and low-water crossings.
- Using boats, personal flotation devices, rope systems and sonar/thermal technology for search and rescue in challenging water environments.
Technical Rescue
Technical Rescue teams respond to diverse, high-risk emergencies where traditional rescue methods are not sufficient. These operations often involve unstable structures, confined spaces, or locations with limited access.
Types of Technical Rescue May Include:
- High-angle and rope rescues
- Trench and collapse rescues
- Structural collapse incidents
- Machinery and industrial entrapments
