Skip to main content

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 – Slingable, Water, 72 GL, Non-Potable

NFES #
000426
Category
Water Handling
Updated
Storage and Shelf Life Checks
None

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

  1. Visually inspect for missing components, or need for repair such as: straps, hoses, spigot, cap, and gasket.
  2. Return to stock if in unused condition.
  3. Refurbish if dirty or need repair.
  4. Dispose of item if it fails inspection and/or is damaged beyond repair.

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

  1. Clean exterior of tank thoroughly with filler cap attached.
  2. Support or hang tank with spigot closed, remove cap and fill with water to rinse out tank.
  3. Replace cap and shake bag vigorously until all foreign matter is removed.
  4. Drain completely through hose and spigot.
  5. Invert bag after removing cap, open spigot and empty as much water as possible.
  6. Let dry inverted for 1 hour in sun, if possible.

B. Repair

  1. Fill with air and look for leaks, visually inspect bags for rips, tears, or obvious defects.
  2. Use a black permanent marker to indicate damage, keeping all markings simple and professional.
  3. In a well ventilated area clean area around damaged spot with lacquer thinner or other suitable cleaner.
  4. Apply suitable glue (manufacturer’s recommendation) to both surfaces (patch and tank).
  5. Let dry until tacky.
  6. Place patch on damaged area and apply pressure with roller or suitable device for at least 1 minute.
  7. Repair or replace any damaged components.
  8. Ensure bags are stenciled with NFES number and “non-potable” or “suppression use only”.

C. Testing for Performance

  1. Re-inspect any patches or repairs.
  2. Fill with air to test for leaks.

D. Repackaging

  • Ensure that tank is stenciled visibly with the words “NON-POTABLE” or SUPPRESSION USE ONLY” and proper NFES # is stenciled on tank.
    • Use NFES #008070 carton (18” x 15” x 5.5”) for NFES #000426.
    • For NFES #006017 and #006021, use local cache option for carton.

 

Reference

Water Handling Equipment Guide, PMS 447-1 

 

Print PDF

NWCG Latest Announcements

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

Equipment Bulletin 25-002: Chaps, Chain Saw, M-2020, Nonconformities Affecting Use, Appearance, and Serviceability

Date: June 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee issued Equipment Bulletin: 25-002 to address a manufacturing nonconformity affecting Forest Service specification, 6170-4K Chain Saw Chaps. The issue applies to chaps manufactured in 2024 and 2025 and distributed through FedMall. These chaps may have incorrectly bound edges that expose inner protective layers.

Independent purchasers should inspect all chain saw chaps received from FedMall beginning in 2024, prior to use. Review the full Equipment Bulletin: 25-002 for inspection criteria and recommended actions.

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-002

2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards

Date: May 22, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards. Each year, EMC recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional actions or accomplishments that go above and beyond their normal mission or job duties.

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

References:

2024 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

NWCG Emergency Medical Committee