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PMS 448

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Read the Introduction for more information on these standards, including where to direct comments, questions, and recommendations. As new items are introduced, current items are discontinued, and/or health and safety issues arise, these standards will be revised to provide updated information. Sort by Update Date to view recent changes.

Litter – S.K.E.D

NFES Status
Active
NFES #
001670
Category
Medical
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for blood or other bodily fluids, alert supervisor for further instructions.
  2. Visually inspect for cuts or tears in plastic surface, soiled surface, missing parts such as straps or fasteners. Inspect for structural damage such as grommets pulled out. Inspect all straps; handles (web gear) are intact and functional.
  3. Return to service if item is clean and in unused condition.
  4. Refurbish if item is soiled or has damaged components that are easily repaired or replaced.
  5. Dispose of S.K.E.D. if there are cuts or tears to plastic materials, webbing and straps are damaged beyond repairs that is economically feasible. See local protocol for proper disposal of items that possess biological hazards.
  6. Retain all serviceable components for replacement on other litters.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Wash S.K.E.D. with a disinfectant and warm water.
  2. Wash with power washer and hang to dry.

B. Repair

  1. Replace worn or damaged straps or fasteners.
  2. Replace missing or damaged grommets.

C. Testing for Performance

  • Reassemble to ensure completeness and all parts are fitting properly.

D. Repackaging

  1. Roll up S.K.E.D. (using rubber gloves for better grip) small enough to fit into case.
  2. Fasten retaining strap tightly so S.K.E.D. can be easily extracted.

 

Reference

For information and parts lists see:

SKEDCO, Inc.
PO Box 230487
Portland, OR. 97281
Phone: 800–770–7533

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2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: 6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2026 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on past incidents from 2016 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2026 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

RMC Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNetX Launch

Date:  June 25, 2026
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Please contact: Risk Management Committee

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) is pleased to announce the launch of SafeNetX, the modernized safety reporting system now available to the wildland fire community. Effective June 15, 2026, SafeNetX enables reporting of unsafe, unhealthy, near-miss, and high-risk operations across wildland fire, all-hazard incidents, training, and related work environments.

SafeNetX is the result of a multi-agency modernization effort led by RMC, which began evaluating improvements to the legacy SAFENET system in 2021. To learn more, read the full RMC memorandum in the links provided.

References:

SafeNetX

RMC Safety Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNet X Launch

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Date:  June 12, 2026
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Please contact: Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) announces the recipients of the 2025 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Awards. EMC annually recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated outstanding actions or accomplishments that are above and beyond the expectation of one’s normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety of the wildland fire community. These awards are well deserved.

References:

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

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Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book Now Available for RAMP

Date:  June 12, 2026
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Please contact: Airtanker Base Operations Unit

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Ramp Manager (RAMP).

The Performance Support Package for this position was developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

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 release in January 2027.

References:

NWCG Ramp Manager Position Page

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