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PMS 448

Thermometer – Infrared, Digital, Non-Contact

NFES #
009989
Category
Camp
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Bring thermometer to room temperature before proceeding with refurbishment. Allow 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Inspect for obvious damage to plastic casing or sensor. If any, dispose of properly following local disposal guidelines.
  3. Press the power button and ensure thermometer turns on. If it fails to power up, replace batteries, and try again. If still not working, dispose of thermometer.
  4. Following manufacturers instructions, test thermometer by taking temperature of skin. If not reading correctly, or displaying error message, refer to manufacturer for calibration procedures if any. If unable to properly display temperature, dispose of thermometer.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Wipe outside of thermometer with disinfectant wipes or medical alcohol and a soft cotton swap or cloth and allow to air dry. If any stains, smudges, or writing can not be removed gently, then dispose of thermometer.
  2. Take extra precaution when cleaning the sensor area of the thermometer. Even minor scratches or cleaner residue can affect the accuracy.

B. Repair

  1. Follow manufacturers recommendations to calibrate thermometer. Many thermometers can not be calibrated and must be removed from service.

C. Testing for Performance

  • Test thermometer by measuring skin temperature. Follow manufacturer recommendations for acceptable temperature variations.

D. Repackaging

  • Must be placed in sealed plastic bag and have manufacturer-specific instructions included. There are many different brands and models available, and they are not all interchangeable.
  • Do not store with batteries in thermometer unless battery is integrated into thermometer by manufacturer and cannot be removed.
  • Carton and count is cache optional.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

2024 Paul Gleason Award Winners Announced

Date:  March 13, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Paul Gleason "Lead By Example" awards. Award categories include Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Justin Baxter, National Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Specialist, with the U.S. Forest Service — Initiative and Innovation
  • Kelly Woods, Director of the Wildland Firefighting Lessons Learned Center — Mentoring and Teamwork
  • Doug Booster, Instructor, ProHealth Net, Inc. — Motivation and Vision
  • Pam McDonald, Writer-Editor for the National Interagency Fire Center — Lifetime Achievement Award

References:

Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program (WFLDP)

Leadership Committee

NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Celebrates 50 Years!

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

References:

NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal