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PMS 448

PMS 448

Introduction

COVID-19 Refurb Guidelines

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Deleted Items

Can – Gasoline, Safety, 5 GL, DOT Approved

NFES #
000606
Category
Fuel Handling
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
If stored outside protect from rain, snow, or any form of moisture.

Initial inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect for fuel or mixes and dispose of properly.
  2. Using a mirror and flashlight, inspect the ceiling of the can for additional rust. Inspect all interior surfaces for rust that has pitted, is flaking, or is lifting the interior surface.  Spots larger than a quarter, or collectively multiple areas larger than a quarter, will render the can unserviceable.  Some flash rust may be present and is acceptable. 
  3. Inspect for impacts or dents to corners and seams as separation and/or leaks may occur.
  4. Inspect all threads on nozzles for serviceability.
  5. If can is a quick coupler type, push nozzle into place ensuring that lock button clicks.
  6. Inspect spring closure devices to be sure they are functioning properly.
  7. Inspect for can integrity and uniformity, i.e., collar crushed, large dents, punctures, modifications.
  8. Inspect all cotter keys and pins.
  9. Ensure that containers are properly marked and labeled.
  10. Ensure spark arrester screen is present. Replace screen as necessary.
  11. Return to stock if item shows no signs of use and passes visual inspection.
  12. Refurbish if item has been used and/or damage is repairable.
  13. Dispose of item if damage is found and it cannot be repaired.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Drain all existing fuel.
  2. With pressure washer and detergent wash outside of container.
  3. Clean and dry the interior of the container utilizing evacuators, swabbing, and air drying.  Using a forced air process is not recommended as excess vapors can create a hazardous environment.
  4. Turn upside down with lids off or open to dry.
  5. Spray inside of can lightly with WD-40 or similar product.

B. Repair

  1. Replace rubber O-ring in discharge port of pin-lock style gas cans.
  2. Replace any defective cotter key or pins.
  3. Wipe down outside of container and repaint if necessary.
  4. Ensure container is properly marked and labeled. Color requirement for the can is red with yellow markings. Label shall be FLAMMABLE LIQUID as well as a 1-inch yellow vinyl strip around the bottom of the can (see photo below for example) Markings are dependent on fuel type and can be accomplished using NFES tags #000805, #000802, #000803, #000801. See the NWCG Standards for Transporting Fuel, PMS 442, for more information.
  5. Chain is not required but can be utilized if easily repaired.

C. Tests for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  • Ensure spout is zip tied to handle.

Closeup of the top of a fuel can with the hose zip tied to the handle. Red gas can with spout.

 

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-490, Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended) Available Now

Date:  March 17, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S-490, Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended), 2026 course is now available.

This training includes performance-based activities that allow students to apply the knowledge and concepts required for the Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN), Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN), and Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1) positions. It supports individuals working towards these incident qualifications.

This blended course begins with a self-paced online training (OLT) in the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP), followed by an in-person instructor-led training (ILT).

References:

S-490, Advanced Fire Calculations (Blended)

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN) Position Page

NWCG Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1) Position Page

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