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Illegal Grow Operations

Dangers from People

Illegal marijuana grow operations are often in remote, isolated areas – the same areas we work in. It can be a big business or a small operation. In either case, if the grow site is illegal, you can bet the individuals involved are highly motivated to keep their operation secret. Outsiders are perceived as a threat – people in any type of uniform or official vehicle even more so.

  • If you happen upon an illegal grow operation, notify law enforcement.
  • Do not approach any individuals.
  • Leave the area using the exact route that you entered.
  • If possible, note location.
  • If not able to leave, notify command of situation. They may want to avoid sending more folks into the area.

Dangers from Chemicals

Illegal growers frequently source large amounts of fertilizers and pesticides, many of which are not legal in the U.S. Some of these chemicals pose significant health hazards. Cleanup is highly specialized and requires specific training and PPE.

  • DO NOT touch any barrels, containers, bags, sprayers, etc.
  • If someone has come into contact with a chemical, immediately remove as much as possible by brushing off with gloved hand or water irrigation. Remove clothing WITH CARE to avoid exposing more skin to the material.
  • If you see something with the name of the chemical on it, snap a photo (if safe to do so) and send along with the patient.
  • Watch for signs and symptoms of organophosphate or carbamate poisoning. Think of it as everything is dripping and running. The mnemonic “SLUDGE” may be helpful:
    • S alivation - drooling
    • L acrimation - watery eyes
    • U rination
    • D efecation - diarrhea
    • GI - cramps and pain
    • E mesis - vomiting

Difficulty breathing, wheezing, muscle cramps, and low heart rate are more symptoms. 
There are antidotes available, but time is critical. Initiate the “RED” Medical Incident Response (MIR) plan and get help immediately. State if you suspect poisoning since antidotes are specific and require very high doses. If you can, decontaminate the victim to help prevent exposing others and the medical responders. Brush off any dried powder with a gloved hand or brush, then rinse with copious amounts of water. If wet, rinse immediately. 

While you wait for care, it’s a good idea to call POISON CONTROL: 800-222-1222 

References:

Category
Misc Fireline Hazards

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NWCG Latest Announcements

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for PROC and TIME

Date: July 17, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Incident Business Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Procurement Unit Leader (PROC) and Time Unit Leader (TIME).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1 update, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Procurement Unit Leader Position Page

NWCG Time Unit Leader Position Page

National Wildland Firefighter Day

Date: July 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
National Interagency Fire Center

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) recognizes July 2, 2025, as National Wildland Firefighter Day (NWFFD). Established in 2022, NWFFD honors the dedication of wildland firefighters and support personnel. This day falls within the 2025 Week of Remembrance (June 30 - July 6), providing an opportunity to renew our commitment to wildland firefighter safety while remembering those who have fallen in the line of duty.

NWCG provides leadership to enable interoperable wildland fire operations among federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners. NWCG standards and training establish common practices to contribute to safe, effective, and coordinated interagency wildland fire operations nationwide.

References:

Week of Remembrance

National Wildland Firefighter Day

2025 Week of Remembrance

Date: June 27, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2025 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on the past incidents from 2015 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations—whether in briefing rooms or at tailgates—that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2025 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003 Flame-Resistant Shirt Survey

Date: June 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The U.S. Forest Service National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) is seeking input on the Forest Service-designed flame-resistant (FR) shirt, currently available through the National Interagency Support Cache system and FedMall.

NTDP is conducting a product review to improve future FR shirt designs. As part of this effort, a short survey is now open for federal employees who have worn any of three recent FR shirt models. Feedback will guide design improvements to better meet the needs of wildland firefighters.

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act, responses are limited to federal employees. The survey is open through September 12, 2025. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003