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PMS 448

Kit – Insulation, Shelter, 20’ Octagon

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

NEW! S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended) Now Available

Date: June 10, 2025
If you have questions, please visit our FAQ page. 
If your question is not answered there, you can 
submit your question using our Contact Us form. 
 

The S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended), equips new wildland firefighters with essential skills through a mix of online learning and hands-on training. The course features a required online component and an instructor-led exercise, reinforcing online concepts with practical performance-based training.

The course builds competencies in wildland fire operations, safety, and equipment use, applicable across various operational environments. Both the online component and instructor-led field exercise must be completed to receive a certificate of completion. Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended).

References:

S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

EMC Memo 25-001: Interim Rapid Extraction Module (REMS) Training and Qualification Requirements

Date: June 3, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The Emergency Medical Committee has issued interim guidance for Rapid Extraction Module Support (REMS) teams. Until further notice, Type I and II REMS teams must designate a team leader qualified at Firefighter Type 1 Squad Boss (FFT1) or higher. This temporary change replaces the Single Resource Boss (SRB) requirement, which is currently not feasible due to administrative barriers.

This memorandum does not include any other changes to the NWCG Standards for Rapid Extraction Module Support, PMS 552. This interim change takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

References:

EMC Memo 25-001: Interim Rapid Extraction Module (REMS) Training and Qualification Requirements

NWCG Standards for Rapid Extraction Module Support, PMS 552

Equipment Bulletin 25-002: Chaps, Chain Saw, M-2020, Nonconformities Affecting Use, Appearance, and Serviceability

Date: June 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee issued Equipment Bulletin: 25-002 to address a manufacturing nonconformity affecting Forest Service specification, 6170-4K Chain Saw Chaps. The issue applies to chaps manufactured in 2024 and 2025 and distributed through FedMall. These chaps may have incorrectly bound edges that expose inner protective layers.

Independent purchasers should inspect all chain saw chaps received from FedMall beginning in 2024, prior to use. Review the full Equipment Bulletin: 25-002 for inspection criteria and recommended actions.

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-002

2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards

Date: May 22, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards. Each year, EMC recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional actions or accomplishments that go above and beyond their normal mission or job duties.

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

References:

2024 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

NWCG Emergency Medical Committee