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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.

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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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

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Date: May 7, 2025
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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