The Stope Fire: A Powerful Reminder of What Community Looks Like

On Tuesday evening, July 14, the Mosquito community was reminded how quickly a normal summer night can change—and how strong a prepared community can be.

As residents returned home from work and others gathered at Dyer Lake Park for Taco Tuesday, the sirens from Station 75 sounded across the district. Mosquito Fire crews responded immediately to what became the Stope Fire, quickly knocking down a potentially serious threat. CAL FIRE arrived shortly after, assisting with securing the scene and preventing any reignition.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/c6a3f1_3b7704d07a9a45928fd2ec3065b49ac6/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Taco Tuesday 7/14/26 - Stope Fire MFPD Responding - Dyer Lake Park Video: Wani Ocanas

Behind the scenes, Mosquito residents played a critical role in the response. Volunteers mobilized at the station to answer calls, push out real-time information, prepare equipment, coordinate additional resources, and support firefighter readiness. Mosquito is one of very few communities with this depth of resident involvement in its fire department.

MFPD provided real-time information to the community via social media. Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MFPD75

Many residents may not realize how crucial the first hour is after an incident, or how urgently we need as many people as possible to step up until mutual aid agencies arrive. Our network of community volunteers is the essential backbone supporting firefighters until Garden Valley, Georgetown, CAL FIRE, or El Dorado County Fire resources are on scene.

In the hours following the incident, messages of appreciation have poured out on social media from residents, recognizing both firefighters and volunteers for their swift, coordinated response. This is a powerful reminder that our system works because the community shows up. It is equally important to recognize that the strength of Mosquito Station 75 depends on residents staying informed and actively participating in its governance, oversight, and ongoing preparedness efforts. Read more about the state of Station 75 here: www.mosquitofire.com/stronger75

We will be celebrating our community spirit and showing appreciation to our fire department personnel and volunteers at Mosquito National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, at Station 75 during our BLOCKBUSTER Fire Station Movie Party. While National Night Out is traditionally focused on law enforcement, Mosquito is using it as an opportunity to bring residents closer to their fire department—connecting with firefighters, volunteers, and the people who help keep this community safe. It’s also an opportunity to discover how you can get involved—and how your unique skills, talents, and passion can make a real difference when your community needs it most.

The need for volunteers remains critical. From emergency response to support roles, prevention, and community programs, there are many ways to contribute. We do not all need to be firefighters—but we all have a responsibility to help protect this community.

Take the first step and get more information about volunteer opportunities in the community. Visit www.mosquitofire.com/community