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Status/Check-In Recorder

SCKN Incident Position Description

The Status/Check-in Recorder (SCKN) ensures that all resources assigned to an incident are checked in and accounted for. The SCKN is supervised by the Resource Unit Leader (RESL) and works in the Planning functional area.

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Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Check in with incident supervisor when arriving at the incident.
  • Obtain briefing from previous shift/assignment position as necessary.

Build The Team

  • Continually gather critical information relevant to the incident.
  • Assist other functional areas, as requested.
  • Provide a positive influence and promote teamwork.
  • Share expertise with other Status/Check-In Recorders (SCKNs) and incident personnel, as appropriate.

Perform Status/Check-in Recorder-Specific Duties

  • Set up check-in station(s).
  • Welcome and orient resources to the incident upon their arrival.
  • Check in resources.
  • Enter resource information into the resource tracking application.
  • Ensure information entered into the resource tracking application is current and accurate.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Follow established processes and chain of command for collecting, producing, and distributing information.
  • Coordinate with other functional areas (such as the Operations, Planning, and Logistics sections).
  • Participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Adhere to established guidelines for work/rest, personal protective equipment (PPE), and communication.
  • Monitor for signs and symptoms of fatigue, illness, or injury. Mitigate appropriately.

Document

  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

Demobilize

  • Return equipment and supplies to appropriate unit.
  • Transition check-in responsibilities to incoming Status/Check-In Recorder (SCKN), Resources Unit Leader (RESL), or Planning Section Chief (PSC).
  • Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
  • Upon demobilization, report status to home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA).

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Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
 Leadership Committee 

Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

Nominations can be submitted via email with an attached Lead by Example Form to BLM_FA_Leadership_Feedback@blm.gov or through the online form. 

Tips for successful nominations and more information can be found on the Lead by Example webpage. All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

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Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award Nomination Form 2025 

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Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: NWCG Audiovisual Specialist

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Later this month, NWCG will release a compelling video that brings the Ransom Road Fire to life through firsthand accounts, official reports, and animated maps. Rob Lee, second on site during the deployment, shares his powerful recollections of that day. 

This video will be going live later this month in NWCG's RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) Catalogue.

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Date: October 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
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The campaign is structured into four quarters and may be completed at any time between October 1, 2025 -December 31, 2026. Leadership levels will be released quarterly.

Quarter One materials are now available on the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program website and focus on Leadership Level 1, Follower (Self-Leadership).

References:

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

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