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PMS 448

Heater – Propane, 20# Tank Mounted

NFES #
006139
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visual inspect for missing parts (guards, knobs, etc.) or any structural damage preventing repair. Inspect for torn or cut heater element, damaged or cracked hose/hose connections, loose fittings, and damage to regulators.
  2. Inspect hoses for cracks, inspecting for breaks by flexing.
  3. Inspect hose or valve for foreign material that might cause a blocked line.
  4. Inspect O-rings on supply hose and replace if needed.
  5. Inspect for out-of-round fittings by screwing regulator into tank POL fitting.
  6. Return to stock if item passes initial inspection, passes Testing for Performance, is clean, and is serviceable.
  7. Refurbish heater if any damage is repairable, missing or damaged components are available, and it’s economically feasible to refurbish.
  8. Dispose of heaters that have structural damage that prevents repair. Salvage parts that are serviceable for future repairs. Dispose of damaged regulators and cracked or damaged hoses.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean the outside of the heater using a damp cloth. DO NOT clean the heater by spraying water on it.
  2. Clean the inside of the heater using compressed air.

B. Repair

  1. Replace regulator if there is any damage to the regulator or threads do not properly seat.
  2. Replace or straighten any damaged or bent parts.
  3. Repair or replace auto shut off valve if not working properly (if applicable.)
  4. Replace any damaged or cracked hose or hose connections.

C. Testing for Performance

  1. Prior to testing use an air hose to blow unit off of any dust, dirt or debris.
  2. Perform initial inspections prior to testing.
  3. Ensure a fire extinguisher is in the work area prior to lighting any heater.
  4. Mount or connect the heater to a LP-Gas supply cylinder.
  5. Turn on gas supply to the heater and check all fittings and connections for gas leaks using mild soap and water solution. NEVER INSPECT FOR LEAKS USING A MATCH OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF FLAME. Should a gas leak occur, shut off the gas supply to the heater immediately and wait a minimum of five minutes before repairing the leak.
  6. When assured that there are no leaks, light heater/pilot. If heater/pilot does not ignite within 5 seconds, extinguish flame and shut off gas valve. Wait 5 minutes before retrying.
  7. (#006139 heaters) Once pilot is lit, let run for 3-5 minutes, try on/off cycle 2 to 3 times.
  8. (#006187 heaters) Once pilot is lit, turn heater on, let run for 3-5 minutes; try on/off cycle 2 to 3 times.
  9. If heater fails, determine if economical to repair, send to a certified repair shop.
  10. Inspect auto shut off valve is in working condition by tipping unit over (if applicable.)

D. Repackaging

  • Repack in original carton if possible or pack to local cache option.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

Updated! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

Date: October 3, 2024
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

References:

L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led)

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

Date: Sept 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee 

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use. This advisory recommends all pre-2006 fire shelters should be removed from service by January 1, 2026.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to:

  • Inspect fire shelters immediately
  • Replace and destroy any pre-2006 shelters (identified by white or pink insert label)
  • Order replacements as needed

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory. 

References:

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

NWCG Fire Inspection Flowchart, PMS 411-1

NWCG Alerts

NEW! S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) Now Available

Date: Sept 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fuels Management Committee 

The S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Firing Boss, Single Resource (FIRB) incident qualifications.

This blended course combines online and instructor-led training to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of the FIRB, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Firing Boss, Single Resource, PMS 350-105.

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 January 2026.

References:

S-219, Firing Operations (Blended)

NWCG Firing Boss, Single Resource Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Committees Observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Week: September 7-13, 2025

Date: Sep 5, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Mental Health Subcommittee

The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

References:

2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources