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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

2025 Week of Remembrance

Date: June 27, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2025 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on the past incidents from 2015 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations—whether in briefing rooms or at tailgates—that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2025 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003 Flame-Resistant Shirt Survey

Date: June 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The U.S. Forest Service National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) is seeking input on the Forest Service-designed flame-resistant (FR) shirt, currently available through the National Interagency Support Cache system and FedMall.

NTDP is conducting a product review to improve future FR shirt designs. As part of this effort, a short survey is now open for federal employees who have worn any of three recent FR shirt models. Feedback will guide design improvements to better meet the needs of wildland firefighters.

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act, responses are limited to federal employees. The survey is open through September 12, 2025. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003

NEW! S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended) Now Available

Date: June 10, 2025
If you have questions, please visit our FAQ page. 
If your question is not answered there, you can 
submit your question using our Contact Us form. 
 

The S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended), equips new wildland firefighters with essential skills through a mix of online learning and hands-on training. The course features a required online component and an instructor-led exercise, reinforcing online concepts with practical performance-based training.

The course builds competencies in wildland fire operations, safety, and equipment use, applicable across various operational environments. Both the online component and instructor-led field exercise must be completed to receive a certificate of completion. Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended).

References:

S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

EMC Memo 25-001: Interim Rapid Extraction Module (REMS) Training and Qualification Requirements

Date: June 3, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The Emergency Medical Committee has issued interim guidance for Rapid Extraction Module Support (REMS) teams. Until further notice, Type I and II REMS teams must designate a team leader qualified at Firefighter Type 1 Squad Boss (FFT1) or higher. This temporary change replaces the Single Resource Boss (SRB) requirement, which is currently not feasible due to administrative barriers.

This memorandum does not include any other changes to the NWCG Standards for Rapid Extraction Module Support, PMS 552. This interim change takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

References:

EMC Memo 25-001: Interim Rapid Extraction Module (REMS) Training and Qualification Requirements

NWCG Standards for Rapid Extraction Module Support, PMS 552