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Delivering Tactical Decision Games Using Sand Table Exercises, PMS 468

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Delivering Tactical Decision Games Using Sand Table Exercises, PMS 468, is developed and maintained by the Leadership Committee (LC), an entity of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG).

While they may contain current or useful information, previous versions are obsolete. The user of this information is responsible for confirming that they have the most up-to-date version. NWCG is the sole source for the publication.

Comments, questions, and recommendations shall be submitted to the appropriate agency program manager assigned to the LC. View the complete roster.

The following videos provide specific instructions on how Tactical Decision Games are conducted using sand tables.  Use these videos in conjunction with Design and Delivery of Tactical Decision Games, PMS 468-1.

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Introduction (5:45)

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Engaging the Participants (6:36)

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The Facilitator Role (9:00)

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After Action Review (3:07)

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The 2026 Core Components Module Package for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) and the 2025 Fire Year in Review are now available on the NWCG website. The 2026 Core Components Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

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2026 Core Components Module Package

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NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S-490, Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended), 2026 course is now available.

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This blended course begins with a self-paced online training (OLT) in the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP), followed by an in-person instructor-led training (ILT).

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S-490, Advanced Fire Calculations (Blended)

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NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

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S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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