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RT-130 (WFSTAR)

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RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR)

RT-130 Decorative banner. Group of photos depicting wildland firefighters performing various duties.

Firefighting Orders and Watch Out Situations Immersive Activity

Apply the 10 Standard Firefighting Orders and 18 Watch Out Situations to simulated fireline scenarios. This interactive module intentionally provides multiple options for the user to apply a variety of decision-making tools with no right or wrong answers, only different outcomes for each scenario. Outcomes are based on individual user perceptions of risk and situational awareness based on experience level.
Category: Operations
Core Component(s):
Fire and Aviation Operational Safety, Human Factors, Communication and Decision Making
Estimated Delivery Time: 30:00
Video Length: N/A

QR Code for this activity

Interact with the Activity

Intent

Apply the 10 Standard Firefighting Orders and 18 Watch Out Situations to simulated fireline scenarios. The module is intentionally designed to provide multiple options for the user to use a variety of tools to make decisions with no right or wrong answers, only different outcomes for each scenario. Outcomes are based on individual user perceptions of risks and situational awareness based on experience levels.​

Facilitator Preparation

  • Review the immersive activity and work through all the scenarios prior to facilitation.
    • Hand Crew Scenario (automatically opens first)
    • Helitack Scenario
    • Indirect Line Scenario
    • Initial Attack Scenario
    • Prescribed Fire Scenario
  • Become familiar with the toolbar and icon functionality of the application and be able to describe these to participants.
  • In each scenario, there are multiple actions that lead to different outcomes.  Review all of the alternatives prior to facilitation.
  • Some elements of the activity incorporate 360 degree photos.  While they are designed for and preferably viewed on mobile devices, all functionality is maintained when viewed on a computer monitor or projector.

Toolbar and Icon Functionality

Icon Functionality
Image
Map icon

The map icon can be selected at any time to go to another scenario.
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Notebook Icon

If the notepad icon is highlighted, it is recommended that you refer to your Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
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Eye icon

If the eye icon is highlighted, you should assess your surroundings. You can survey an area by looking up, down, and all around. 
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Hand icon

If the hand icon is highlighted, actions can be taken, such as selecting a hazard or a button.
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Question mark icon

If the question mark icon is highlighted, you are encouraged to select it and ask questions provided on screen.

Facilitate Activity

  • Present the Hand Crew Scenario to the entire group in order to demonstrate the functionality of the application.
  • Divide the class into small or large groups depending on the number of participants.
  • Assign one more scenario to each group.
    • Method 1: Assign each group the same scenario (e.g., all groups complete the Helitack Scenario).
    • Method 2: Assign each group a different scenario (e.g., one group completes the Helitack Scenario, another group completes the Initial Attack Scenario, etc.).
    • Method 3: Assign multiple or all scenarios depending on time limitations and group size.
  • Establish an end time for the groups to complete the scenarios and conduct After Action Reviews (AARs).
  • Allow groups to work through the scenarios without facilitator input.
  • Have each group conduct an AAR upon completion of their assigned scenario(s).
  • Consider having participants document their decisions, outcomes, and AAR.

Facilitating the Discussion

  • Once all groups have completed their AARs, facilitate discussion with all participants.  
  • Depending on which method was used to assign the scenarios, consider reviewing each scenario.
  • Identify differences in group responses and outcomes.
  • Discuss the differences between each group's perceived risk and situational awareness.

Resources

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NWCG Latest Announcements

Updated! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

Date: October 3, 2024
Questions? Please contact:
Leadership Committee

NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

This instructor-led course is a primer on leadership and the second formal course in the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program. It helps emerging leaders build the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to lead effectively in high-risk environments. 

For more information about leadership development and available courses, visit the Leadership Committee Web Portal.

References:

L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led)

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

Date: Sept 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee 

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use. This advisory recommends all pre-2006 fire shelters should be removed from service by January 1, 2026.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to:

  • Inspect fire shelters immediately
  • Replace and destroy any pre-2006 shelters (identified by white or pink insert label)
  • Order replacements as needed

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory. 

References:

Equipment Advisory 25-01: Pre-2006 Fire Shelter Degradation and Discontinuation of Use

NWCG Fire Inspection Flowchart, PMS 411-1

NWCG Alerts

NEW! S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) Now Available

Date: Sept 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fuels Management Committee 

The S-219, Firing Operations (Blended) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Firing Boss, Single Resource (FIRB) incident qualifications.

This blended course combines online and instructor-led training to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of the FIRB, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Firing Boss, Single Resource, PMS 350-105.

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-219, Firing Operations (Blended)

NWCG Firing Boss, Single Resource Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Committees Observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Week: September 7-13, 2025

Date: Sep 5, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Mental Health Subcommittee

The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

References:

2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources