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Intermediate Faller

FAL2 Incident Position Description

The Intermediate Faller (FAL2) has demonstrated the proficiency to work unsupervised while engaging in moderate complexity fireline saw operations, including tree felling, bucking, brushing, and limbing. A FAL2 may perform FAL1 tasks under the direct supervision of a FAL1. The FAL2 may serve as a single resource or as a member of a firefighting crew or module and may at times be tasked to provide oversight to other Basic Fallers (FAL3). A FAL2 serving as part of a module, reports to a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) or one of the Single Resource Bosses (FELB, CRWB, ENGB, FIRB, HMGB). A FAL2 serving as a single resource reports to a Felling Boss (FELB), Strike Team/Task Force Leader (TFLD), or other assigned supervisor. The FAL2 works in the operations functional area.

Leadership Level 2, New Leader (Convey Intent)

  • For additional information review Level 2 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare

  • Remain mentally and physically fit and able to determine when conditions have changed, affecting your fitness for duty status.
  • Ensure individual and equipment readiness.
  • Continually strive to improve, learn from others, and develop safe practices that reinforce good habits and decision making.

Mobilize

  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at the assignment. Notify incident supervisor and/or dispatch when arriving at the incident.
  • Obtain initial briefing from supervisor.

Build the Team

  • Participates in the development and implementation of saw related objectives, priorities, and work assignments for saw team members.
  • Participate in training and mentoring Basic Fallers (FAL3) in the classroom and field.

Perform Intermediate Faller-Specific Duties

  • Able to develop and safely execute a plan to resolve low to moderate complex saw operations that may require use of unconventional techniques.
  • Maintain certification and qualification by demonstrating proficiency of Intermediate Faller knowledge and technical skill to a qualified Intermediate or Advanced Faller evaluator(s) per agency protocol.
  • Continue learning tree anatomy and defects contributing to failure, as well as teaching less-experienced sawyers fundamental elements of tree anatomy.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of chainsaw components and proficiency in maintenance and repair.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Establish and maintain positive communication and coordination with saw teams, your crew, adjoining resources, and supervisors in the work area.
  • Before engaging, receive a thorough briefing from the appropriate supervisor addressing all saw operation specifications and associated expectations.
  • Participate in AARs and information sharing.

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
  • Apply Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) to all saw operations.
  • Plan for and manage medical emergencies.
  • Report all accidents, injuries, or near misses to supervisor.
  • Comply with all standards for chainsaw operations as defined in NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and established agency standards for saw operating procedures.
  • Establish and maintain work area control.
  • Develop and follow safe cutting area practices when using a swamper during saw operations.
  • Recognize changes in operational complexity and report pertinent changes to the appropriate supervisor.

Demobilize

  • Ensure equipment is in good working condition for next assignment and resupply used or damaged equipment as necessary.
  • Return equipment and supplies to appropriate units.
  • Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
  • Upon demobilization, report status to the home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the home unit.
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NWCG Latest Announcements

Updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

Date: May 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Fire Use Subcommittee

The updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431 serves as a supplemental resource for wildland fire module operations, providing information frequently used in the field.

PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

References:

NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

Updated NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 Now Includes Off-Highway Vehicle Typing Standards

Date: May 13, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Mobile Fire Equipment Subcommittee 

The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 has been updated to include newly developed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) typing standards. These standards organize OHV information into logical categories and outline key safety requirements for occupants.

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 establishes minimum typing standards for aircraft, crews, and equipment used in national mobilization to wildland fire incidents. Typing designations are assigned based on measurable capability and performance criteria.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200

NEW! S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers Now Available

Date: May 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Risk Management Committee

The S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers self-directed online course is now available! Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Safety Officer, Field (SOFF) incident qualifications.

S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers focuses on facilitating hazard mitigation conversations and building trust to influence safety-related decisions. Individuals can self-enroll through the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP).

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

References:

S-204, Interpersonal and Critical Thinking Skills for Safety Officers 

NWCG Safety Officer, Field (SOFF) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Great Basin Cache Upgrading to New Inventory System

Date: May 7, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Great Basin Cache
Phone: (208) 387-5104
Fax: (208) 387-5573

The Great Basin Cache (GBK) is transitioning to a new inventory system to better serve the wildland fire community. During this upgrade, GBK will be unable to process standard orders from Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment and Part 2: Publications between May 8-20, 2025, with exceptions made for emergency fire orders. Orders will be accepted through close of business May 7.

To browse the latest available items, please refer to the National Fire Equipment System (NFES) catalogs. 

References:

NWCG NFES Catalog-Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment, PMS 449-1

NWCG NFES Catalog-Part 2: Publications, PMS 449-2