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PMS 448

PMS 448

PMS 448

Introduction

COVID-19 Refurb Guidelines

References

All Content

Aviation

Camp

Clothing

Cordura

Fuel Handling

Kits

Medical

Miscellaneous

PPE

Small Engine Equipment

Tools

Water Handling

Deleted Items

Bag – Sleeping, Cold Weather

NFES #
000128
Category
Clothing
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
Prior to shipping, inspect carton for rodent damage and/or moisture damage. If found, handle accordingly and dispose of carton and contents in appropriate manner.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for any holes, cuts, tears, abrasions, or torn seams that cannot be repaired economically, if any dispose of.
  2. Inspect for excessive dirt or stains that laundering cannot eliminate, if any dispose of.
  3. Inspect for missing slider, damaged coils, or other defects that make zipper inoperable, repair if economical.
  4. Inspect for batting that is bunched-up or in clumps. Shake the bag several times to ensure that the batting will loft evenly, not clump or shift.
  5. Inspect for any indelible marking on the bag, if any dispose of.
  6. Inspect for any signs of body fluid stains. If there’s any question on whether the bag can be completely cleaned and sanitized, dispose of the item.
  7. Return to stock if item shows no signs of use and passes initial inspection.
  8. Dispose of item if unable to repair.
  9. Refurbish if damage detected is repairable.

Refurbishment Procedures

A. Cleaning- CLASS 4 CORDURA - SLEEPING BAGS

  1. Remove all contents not part of the bag and zip closed before laundering.
  2. Launder bags in front-loading machine. Use mild soap in water of no more than 130 °F.  Sterilize with a bleach solution of 50 ppm in the last wash cycle.
  3. With bag unzipped, dry in a tumble dryer with an average temperature not to exceed 130 °F. The dryer unit shall be of the reverse-action type. All bags shall be unfolded and shall tumble free. (To obtain the average temperature, test the temperature every 5 minutes and average the findings.)
  4. After drying, zip bags closed.

B. Repair

  1. Repair any hole, cut, tear, abrasion, or open seam.
  2. Replace any zipper that has damaged coils and replace any missing slider.

C. Tests for Performance

  1. Inspect cord lock to ensure spring works properly and that the cord passes freely through when the lock is disengaged.
  2. Close zipper to ensure it provides a smooth and secure closure the full length of the bag opening.
  3. Open and close the hook and pile fastener to ensure closure is adequate.
  4. Retest all hardware if it has been replaced.

D. Repackaging

  1. Package in plastic bag.
    • For NFES #000022, #000058, #000128 package 5 bags in NFES #000644 carton (33” x 16” x 22”).
    • For NFES #001062 package 10 bags in NFES #000513 carton (37.50” x 24.50” x 17”).

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) Now Available

Date: Aug 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee

The S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) is now available. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) incident qualifications. 

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the HECM position, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Helicopter Crewmember, PMS 350-22.

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-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended)

NWCG Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for FBAN and LTAN

Date: Aug 13, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) and Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

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:

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst Page