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Vehicles - Roads

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Dozer/Plow Operations

Dozers and tractor plows provide suppression and support capability for fire operations. When working on or around dozers on the fireline, it is important to respect the following guidelines:

  • Load/unload equipment from the transport in a safe manner on a level, stable surface.
  • Park transport in an area free of vegetative fuel. Clear an area if needed to protect parked equipment.
  • Do not sit or bed down near equipment. Walk around the equipment before starting or moving it.
  • Lower the dozer blade and/or fire plow to the ground when the equipment is idling or stopped.
  • When working around a dozer or tractor plow, stay at least 100 feet in front or 50 feet behind the equipment.
  • Allow no one but the operator to ride on the equipment.
  • Never get on or off equipment while it is moving.
  • Provide front and rear lights for equipment working at night or in heavy smoke.
  • Provide lights and fluorescent vests to personnel working with dozer/tractor plow units.
  • Use hand signals for direction and safety.
  • Do not use a dozer or tractor plow without a canopy or brush guard and radio communications.
  • Operators will wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and carry a fire shelter.
  • Be aware of different fuel types, rates of spread, and flammability.
  • Watch for wetlands, steep slopes, rocks, ditches, and other obstacles that might stop the equipment.
  • Do not get too far ahead of a firing crew during firing operations.
  • Anchor the line to a secure firebreak and create a black line (burn out) until the fire is completely enclosed.
  • Tractor plow operators should wear headgear protection for head, face, eyes, and ears while also providing radio reception and ventilation capabilities.
  • Tractor plow crews should consist of a minimum of two people.
  • When the dozer or tractor plow is equipped with a hand-clutch lever, always take equipment out of gear when mounting and dismounting.

 

Category
Vehicles Roads
References
Safety and Occupational Health Manual Handbook, BLM-1112-1

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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