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PMS 448

Helmet – Flight, SPH-5C, Regular, w/Bag

NWCG Committee Realignment Website Updates: Content will continue to be updated over the coming days as we work through final reviews and adjustments, and all publications and products are currently under revision.

NFES #
002314
Category
Aviation
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. If helmet carton is unopened inspect carton for signs of crushing, drops or water damage. If carton is damaged, open and inspect helmet following remaining inspection processes.
  2. Visual inspection indicating use or missing parts (screws, visors, worn cords, etc.)
  3. Structural damage (cracked shell, visor housing, booms, etc.)
  4. Structural damage preventing repair and refurbishment (cracked helmet shell, salvage useable part and dispose of helmet shell)
  5. Visual inspection for SPH-4 helmets as flight helmets must meet requirements in Instruction Memo No. 96-2006 which states: SPH-4 Helmet should be converted to SPH-5 Helmets or disposed of.
  6. Return to inventory if helmet has been unused and carton does not show signs of damage.
  7. Send for refurbishment if any item found during inspection such as use or missing parts appear to be repairable
  8. Dispose of helmet if structural integrity is compromised. Salvage usable parts.

A. Cleaning

  • Use general purpose cleaner. (Do not use bleach, paint remover, thinner, or acetone on flight helmet shell. It may cause damage)

B. Repair

All refurbishment will be conducted by certified personnel (trained by NIFC ramp services).

  1. Earphones
  2. Microphone
  3. Cord assembly
  4. Microphone cable assembly
  5. Replace missing or damaged parts
  6. Replace thermoplastic liner (TPL) in SPH-5 TPL
    • Size Regular NFES #003063
    • Size XL- NFES #003064
    • Size Small NFES #003065. Contact address below for further information.

Refurbishment and repair may be performed by the following:

National Interagency Fire Center Ramp Services
3833 S. Development Avenue Boise, ID 83705
Phone: 208–387–5529 Fax: 208–387–5785

C. Testing for Performance

  • Re-test avionics if anything has been repaired or replaced

D. Repackaging

  1. Place flight helmet inside helmet bag
  2. Package 1 each in carton NSN 8115-00-079-8680, (12” x 12” x 12”).

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Date:  July 10, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Equipment and Technology Subcommittee

The Logistics/Equipment Management Committee (LMC) has released Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups. This advisory highlights multiple U.S. Forest Service regions reporting front driveline joint failure incidents.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to: 

  • Follow all Ram-issued inspection, maintenance, and service guidance for front driveline joints. 
  • Consider installing a driveline loop. 
  • Coordinate with fleet managers and service providers to determine the most appropriate driveline loop kit for each pickup.

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory.

References:

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Technical Service Bulletin: 03-002-21

NEW! NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

Date:  July 9, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Staff

NWCG is excited to announce the publication of the NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900.

The new publication establishes general, consistent, and uniform standards for conducting business with the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

References:

NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

Quarter Four Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  July 8, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Development Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Fourth Quarter materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Four materials focus on Leadership Level 4: Leader of Leaders (Provide Direction). Leadership Level 4 is where you are setting the conditions for others to do things well, even when you are not present. This quarter focuses on equipping experienced leaders with skills to provide direction, build trust across teams, and foster strong decision making. 

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Development Subcommittee

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