SFD provides specialized rescue operations in a variety of dangerous and life-threatening situations.

The Sedona area’s diverse range of scenic landscapes presents some special challenges. SFD addresses the hazards associated with these challenges through specialized rescue operations.

Swiftwater Rescue

SFD’s Technical Rescue Team performs life-saving operations in swiftwater conditions throughout Sedona and the Verde Valley.

Incidents involving swiftwater conditions often happen with little to no warning. Flood-control channels, creeks, and arroyos can fill quickly with fast moving water, creating a life-threatening danger in low water crossings, normally dry creek beds, roads, and trails throughout the area. Monsoon weather patterns are common in the southwest and can lead to hazardous conditions. Check the local forecast and stay tuned for flash flood warnings when traveling in the area. 

To respond to these incidents, SFD firefighters are certified with internationally recognized criteria to operate in a range of dangerous environments.  SFD is a leader for swiftwater training. Our instructors work with other Verde Valley emergency agencies to teach Rescue 3 curricula — a dynamic, high-intensity course in advanced, state-of-the art techniques. SFD hosts training that keeps rescuers in the Verde Valley current on terminology, tools, and techniques to ensure that multi-agency efforts are well coordinated, efficient, and effective.

 SFD is specially trained in water rescue, yet wants to stress the importance of safety. Avoid hazards by using good judgment when faced with a flooded roadway, and never underestimate the power of moving water. Vehicles can get swept away in less than 2 feet of fast-moving water; as little as 6 inches can knock an adult male off his feet.

High-Angle / Rope Rescue

When visitors or residents become trapped or injured while hiking, SFD is called to respond.

While the natural beauty of Sedona’s red rocks may be a great area attraction, it also presents special challenges when recreation turns into a rescue. SFD responds using a unique set of technical rescue skills developed to mitigate the geographic hazards associated with steep terrain.

All SFD’s firefighters are Rescue 3 certified, giving them a high level of expertise which is crucial given the landscape. When an emergency happens on high ledges or deep crevices, the Technical Rescue Team is called, specializing in high-angle rope rescue for mountain and tower environments.

 When enjoying the scenic wonders of Sedona, remember to stay hydrated, use a guidebook with a map, and be aware of available sunlight. Many rescued hikers lack sufficient drinking water, or they underestimate the difficulty of the trails and end up hiking long after dark without proper attire. Be prepared, know your limitations, and respect the environment — you’ll have a more enjoyable and incident-free experience.

Helicopter (Short-Haul) Rescue

SFD firefighters rescue patients in areas that are extremely remote or inaccessible because of challenging topography.

In cooperation with the Aviation Bureau of the Arizona Department of Public Safety, SFD has assembled a Short Haul Team. These team members rappel from DPS helicopters to assess, treat, and package the patient, then fly with the patient to a location where they can be easily accessed by other rescuers. These life-saving steps are critical to the survival of many patients because they bypass the time-consuming extrications associated with ground-based rescues.

Our Short Haul Team works in cooperation with the Air Rescue Helicopter (Ranger) to provide a variety of services — search, rescue, transport, and advanced emergency medical services — for critically injured or ill patients. The DPS helicopter and highly trained crews are a key component of this service.  Because of the inherent risks involved, short-haul rescues are performed only in extreme circumstances and only by highly skilled professionals.

When enjoying the outdoors, whether as a novice or an experienced hiker, it is always a good idea to carry a cell or satellite phone, tell someone where you’ll be, and know your abilities and limitations.