Skip to main content

Backup and Sharing

Data is backed up to ensure the work of the GISS is not excessively impacted by computer failures or data corruption and to preserve the incident record. The National Incident Feature Service (NIFS) now serves as the official source for all incident data and should be updated daily. The NIFS is backed up and archived to EGP servers every few minutes.

Data sharing ensures all individuals involved with an incident have the information needed to do their jobs and that team transitions are effective and efficient. As of 2019, posting incident data to the NIFC FTP is no longer required. Sharing through the official incident FireNet Team is also a common practice. Follow the guidance of the incident SITL for sharing and posting products.

GISS Workflow Diagram: Back Up and Sharing

Back Up and Sharing – Repeat as Necessary

  1. Back up incident data
  2. Post digital map products to the NIFC FTP site or designated SharePoint folder nightly. Use QR codes if desired.
Image
Backup and Sharing Org chart

Figure 1. GISS Workflow Diagram: Back Up and Sharing
(click image to open larger)

 

Data Sharing Guidelines

“Data sharing” refers to the process of distributing data to other interested and authorized parties or agencies during an incident.

By the end of each operational period, at a minimum, the three primary Event Data Layers (Point, Line, and Polygon) should be updated in the National Event Feature Service.

Data are occasionally shared directly with other authorized users. The GISS should consult the Situation Unit Leader (SITL) with any question about whether a request for data should be fulfilled.

Any incoming team will need a copy of the incident data and working files. Often this data sharing is accomplished by copying the incident’s GIS subdirectory to an external hard drive, which the incoming team will keep. Good communication is needed between the outgoing GISS and the incoming and/or host agency GIS to ensure complete and useful incident data transfer.

Sensitive Data

Sensitive data include but are not limited to cultural and archeological resources, and/or sensitive, threatened, and endangered species and/or data subject to the Privacy Act. These data are usually obtained from the local agency and are returned to the agency at the end of the incident.  Adhere to agency requests pertaining to these data while on the incident.

A procedural document for the incident may be created in cooperation with the local unit and SITL to ensure the proper handling of sensitive data. Remove sensitive data from hardware that leaves the incident.

The GISS should check with the SITL about how to label sensitive data on incident map products; maps containing these data are for incident operational purposes only and must not be shared or posted to public-facing FTP sites or websites.

Do not collect or label sensitive data on web maps, in AGOL, or mobile devices unless there is a way to password protect this information. Sensitive data are not retained with the incident archive.

Sensitive data should be flagged to ensure that they are not shared or archived. A ‘restricted’ folder is provided at the root of the GeoOps Folder Structure for storing sensitive data.

Some data (e.g., IR data) may be considered sensitive or “For Official Use Only” on incidents where homes and structures are threatened. It is imperative the GISS communicate with the SITL and/or the Planning Section Chief and Incident Commander to ensure that only approved information is posted.

Job Aids

YouTube Playlist: Back Up and Share

 

˂˂ Previous Step
 
Next Step >>
 

Last Modified / Reviewed:

Print PDF

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) Now Available

Date: Aug 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee

The S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) is now available. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) incident qualifications. 

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the HECM position, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Helicopter Crewmember, PMS 350-22.

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-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended)

NWCG Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for FBAN and LTAN

Date: Aug 13, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) and Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) 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 January 2026.

References:

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst Page