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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:

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Updated! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

Date: October 3, 2024
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

References:

L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led)

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

Date: Sept 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee 

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use. This advisory recommends all pre-2006 fire shelters should be removed from service by January 1, 2026.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to:

  • Inspect fire shelters immediately
  • Replace and destroy any pre-2006 shelters (identified by white or pink insert label)
  • Order replacements as needed

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory. 

References:

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

NWCG Fire Inspection Flowchart, PMS 411-1

NWCG Alerts

NEW! S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) Now Available

Date: Sept 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fuels Management Committee 

The S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Firing Boss, Single Resource (FIRB) incident qualifications.

This blended course combines online and instructor-led training to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of the FIRB, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Firing Boss, Single Resource, PMS 350-105.

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

References:

S-219, Firing Operations (Blended)

NWCG Firing Boss, Single Resource Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Committees Observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Week: September 7-13, 2025

Date: Sep 5, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Mental Health Subcommittee

The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

References:

2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources