To: Agency Directors

From: Chair, IOSWT

Subject: Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1

October 20, 1998

The Fireline Handbook, January 1998 (NFES #0065), with the exception of some critical changes in Chapter 5 Firefighting Safety, is accurate and applicable to field operations. Corrective action has been taken that addresses the shortcomings of Chapter 5. The following information needs to be disseminated through your office to all units.

Field users that have ordered and now possess a January 1998 version of the Fireline Handbook, will be shipped a revised Chapter 5 dated 9/98, by the end of January 1999. For those that ordered multiple copies of the Fireline Handbooks, an equal number of revisions will be shipped to the unit address. It will be the responsibility of each unit to ensure distribution to individuals. This is an important revision. It essential that all distribution be performed.

Customers who have orders pending or need to order 1998 Fireline Handbooks: orders will be filled when the corrected Chapter 5 is printed and available to be sent with the 1998 Fireline Handbook. Offices will need to replace the Chapter 5 in the book with the revised 9/98 version. New orders will be shipped at the same time the Chapter 5 revisions are shipped.

Users will want to discard the original Chapter 5 when the revised version is inserted.

Inquiries and requests for revisions that have not been received by January 31, 1999, may be directed to the Great Basin Cache Supply Office at 208-387-5104. In order to facilitate a smooth and trackable distribution of this critical item, do not make requests or inquiries prior to this date.

\s_________________________________
Rodger Vorce, Chair IOSWT

cc: NWCG
Geographic Area Chairs
GACCs
IOSWT members