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PMS 448

Extinguisher – Fire, 20A:120BC, 20 lbs. (9.1L)

NFES #
000307
Category
Miscellaneous
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
Yes
Storage and Shelf Life Procedure
Yearly inspection by authorized service representative.

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visual inspection of use gauge. 
  2. Ensure the gauge arrow is registering in the “green.”
  3. If gauge arrow is in the “red”, set aside for an authorized service representative.
  4. Inspect for missing parts:  Safety pin, hose, and bracket.
  5. Verify tag for expiration date and signature of authorized service representative.
  6. If either of these is in question, set aside for authorized service representative.
  7. Return to stock if unused, passes inspection and not expired.
  8. Refurbish if item is dirty, expired or needs other service.
  9. To dispose of an old fire extinguisher that cannot be refilled or that you do not wish to refill:
    1. Release any pressure contained in the canister by shooting a small amount into an open area.
    2. Let the canister sit for a few days, making sure the pressure has been released.
    3. Once there is no longer any pressure, dispose in a trash bag in your regular garbage.

Refurbishment Procedures

A. Cleaning

  • Wipe down entire unit with a damp rag and make sure hose is free of dirt or debris.

B. Repair

  • Repair, testing and filling performed by authorized service representatives only.

C. Testing for Performance

  • None

D. Repackaging

  1. Package 1 each in NFES #000385 carton (7.25” x 9.25” x 26”) to prevent accidental discharge of extinguisher. 
  2. Label carton with:
    • Extinguisher’s expiration date.
    • NFES #000596 LABEL - NON-FLAMMABLE GAS 2.
    • Directional arrows “This Side Up” oriented in the direction of the extinguisher standing upright.
    • NFES label.

 

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

RMC Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNetX Launch

Date:  June 25, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Risk Management Committee

The Risk Management Committee (RMC) is pleased to announce the launch of SafeNetX, the modernized safety reporting system now available to the wildland fire community. Effective June 15, 2026, SafeNetX enables reporting of unsafe, unhealthy, near-miss, and high-risk operations across wildland fire, all-hazard incidents, training, and related work environments.

SafeNetX is the result of a multi-agency modernization effort led by RMC, which began evaluating improvements to the legacy SAFENET system in 2021. To learn more, read the full RMC memorandum in the links provided.

References:

SafeNetX

RMC Safety Memorandum 26-02: SAFENET Modernization and SafeNet X Launch

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) announces the recipients of the 2025 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Awards. EMC annually recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated outstanding actions or accomplishments that are above and beyond the expectation of one’s normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety of the wildland fire community. These awards are well deserved.

References:

2025 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

Emergency Medical Committee

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book Now Available for RAMP

Date:  June 12, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Airtanker Base Operations Unit

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Ramp Manager (RAMP).

The Performance Support Package for this position was developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization 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 release in January 2027.

References:

NWCG Ramp Manager Position Page

National Interagency Aviation Committee

Make an Impact: Serve the Wildland Fire Community as an IPTM SME!

Date:  June 11, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG SME Specialist

Note: Positions with an * will last approximately 6 months.
Positions with ** will last 12 - 18 months.

NWCG is seeking experienced wildland firefighters and support personnel to serve as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) initiative. IPTM aims to transition NWCG’s training and qualification system to a performance-based model by updating position descriptions, Incident Position Standards, Next Generation Position Task Books (Next Gen PTBs), and training where needed.

NWCG is currently recruiting SMEs for the Fall 2026 positions listed below:

  • Equipment Manager (EQPM)*
  • Fixed Wing Parking Tender (FWPT)**
  • Mixmaster (MXMS)*
  • Public Information Officer Complex (PIOC)*
  • Retardant Crewmember (RTCM)*
  • Strike Team Leader Crew (STCR)*
  • Strike Team Leader Engine (STEN)*
  • Strike Team Leader Heavy Equipment (STEQ)*
  • Task Force Leader (TFLD)**
  • Wildland Fire Investigator (INVF)** 

Projects begin October 2026. Sign up by July 10, 2026, at the link below and review the attached document for additional details. 

References:

NWCG SME Interest Sign-up

IPTM Subject Matter Expert Duties and Expectations Document

Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM)