In 2012, Burning Mountains Fire Protection District (New Castle, Silt) and Rifle Fire Protection District (Rifle) began the process of merging in order to provide better services to all three communities. This process resulted in the creation of Colorado River Fire Rescue (CRFR).
CRFR provides all-hazards service, including structure and wildland fire protection, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, and rescue response for the Town of New Castle, the Town of Silt, the City of Rifle, and surrounding areas with a total response area of approximately 851 square miles.