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

RT-130 Decorative banner. Group of wildland firefighters hiking down a valley to a fire. Black topo map and WFSTAR logo on left.

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

IconFunctionality
Map icon
The map icon can be selected at any time to go to another scenario.
Notebook Icon
If the notepad icon is highlighted, it is recommended that you refer to your NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
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. 
Hand icon
If the hand icon is highlighted, actions can be taken, such as selecting a hazard or a button.
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

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Date:  July 10, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Equipment and Technology Subcommittee

The Logistics/Equipment Management Committee (LMC) has released Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups. This advisory highlights multiple U.S. Forest Service regions reporting front driveline joint failure incidents.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to: 

  • Follow all Ram-issued inspection, maintenance, and service guidance for front driveline joints. 
  • Consider installing a driveline loop. 
  • Coordinate with fleet managers and service providers to determine the most appropriate driveline loop kit for each pickup.

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory.

References:

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Technical Service Bulletin: 03-002-21

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Date:  July 9, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Staff

NWCG is excited to announce the publication of the NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900.

The new publication establishes general, consistent, and uniform standards for conducting business with the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

References:

NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

Quarter Four Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  July 8, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Development Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Fourth Quarter materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Four materials focus on Leadership Level 4: Leader of Leaders (Provide Direction). Leadership Level 4 is where you are setting the conditions for others to do things well, even when you are not present. This quarter focuses on equipping experienced leaders with skills to provide direction, build trust across teams, and foster strong decision making. 

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Development Subcommittee

2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: 6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2026 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on past incidents from 2016 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 that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2026 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center