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PMS 448

PMS 448

PMS 448

Introduction

COVID-19 Refurb Guidelines

References

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Deleted Items

Kit – Shelter, 16’ Octagon

NFES #
000550
Category
Kits
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

This item has been deleted from the NFES catalog.

National Caches are not stocking or refurbishing this item.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Inspect packing list and instructions. Refer to NWCG National Fire Equipment System Catalog for a complete list of kit components.
    1. Assemble the mainframe and components according to instructions. All locking pins and flex joints should move easily.
    2. Inspect for burrs on all components of mainframe, eve bars, and base bars.
    3. Loosen flex joints and remove burrs as needed.
  2. Inspect and install door. Door should open and close easily.
  3. Inspect roof and wall panels for any tears or rips and repair as needed.
  4. Inspect windows and screens in wall panels. Repair or replace where necessary.
  5. Check for broken welds on key flange, repair by bolting.
  6. Return to stock if shelter was not used, all kit contents are accounted for, and the shelter is clean.
  7. Refurbish kit if the shelter was used or is missing components.
  8. Disposal of complete kits is not recommended. Seek direction from local cache management for specific disposal criteria. Components that are damaged beyond repair should be disposed of and replaced with like items.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean main frame and misc. parts with a damp cloth and mild detergent if necessary.
  2. Clean the roof and wall panels with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a brush to remove hard dirt and grime or high pressure wash. Rinse well.
  3. Air dry completely before repackaging.

B. Repair

  1. Repair or replace any part of the main frame as needed. Bolt key flange.
  2. When dismantling, wipe all component parts with a damp cloth and return to proper container.
  3. Repair any holes, tears or rips as needed.
  4. Ensure that all locking buttons snap into place.
  5. Ensure that the Velcro is dry on all panels before folding and placing in proper container.
  6. Stencil main frame with property number, stencil inside the center roof ring.
  7.  Ensure that all kit components are accounted for prior to repacking.

C. Testing for Performance

  • none

D. Repackaging

  1. Repack according to manufacturer’s instructions and local cache option.
  2. Ensure that installation/assembly instructions are included in package.

 

Reference

Replacement parts may be obtained by contacting:
Western Shelter Systems
830 Wilson Street
Eugene, OR 97402
Phone: 541–344–7267

 

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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