Skip to main content

PMS 448

Kit – Insulation, Shelter, 20’ Octagon

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 #
000581
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Refer to NWCG NFES Catalog, – Part 1: Fire Supplies and Equipment, PMS 449-1, for a complete list of kit components. Replace missing parts as needed.
  2. Inspect roof and wall panels for any tears or rips and repair or replace as needed.
  3. Inspect windows and screens in wall panels. Repair or replace where necessary.
  4. Check for missing straps and Velcro on panels and replace as needed.
  5. Ensure panels are stenciled with correct NFES numbers.
  6. Inspect NFES 001065 aluminum container for damage to the hinges, clasps, handles, and rubber seal in the lid. Repair if possible; replace as needed. Ensure all proper markings and labels are clear and legible.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. DO NOT PRESSURE WASH. Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent. A soft bristle brush and low-pressure garden hose may be used for tougher spots.
  2. Air dry completely before repackaging taking care that there is no moisture in between the insulation layers. Ensure that the Velcro is dry on all panels before folding and placing in proper container.
  3. Wash NFES 001065 aluminum container using damp cloth, garden hose, or pressure wash as needed. Allow to air dry.

B. Repair

  1. Repair any holes, tears, or rips as needed using Type A TEAR-AID Patch. If it requires an excessive number of patches, consider replacement.
  2. Re-stencil NFES numbers as needed.
  3. Often times, damage to the NFES 001065 aluminum container is not economical to repair. Repair when possible, replace as needed.
  4. Replace buckles, straps, and snaps as needed. Velcro and straps may require sewing into place. If damage to the underlying material is excessive, replace as needed.

C. Testing for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  1. Fold neatly, preferably with the NFES stencil visible.
  2. Place folded panels in #001065 aluminum kit container. Use a truck seal or equivalent and seal the clasp.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Task Book Update

Date:  July 24, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Tree Felling Subcommittee

NWCG Operations Management Committee (OMC) has issued an update to the NWCG Position Task Book for Intermediate Faller (FAL2), PMS 311-91. To ensure clarity for both trainees and evaluators, the updated FAL2 Position Task Book (PTB) explicitly states who is authorized to sign off on your tasks:

“Evaluators must be qualified as a FAL2, or an Advanced Faller (FAL1).”

If you are currently working out of a previously published version of the FAL2 PTB, you do not need to restart. However, OMC highly encourages you to take the following step to prevent any confusion in the field:

  • Print and replace the updated evaluator information page (page 2) in your current physical PTB.

References:

Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Page

RMC Memo 26-01: Transition Plan for Implementing Updates to Intermediate Faller (FAL2) Position Qualifications

NWCG Position Task Book for Intermediate Faller (FAL2), PMS 311-91

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