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Retardant and Water Drop Safety

 

Retardant (jell, foam), paracargo, and water drops on a fire are routine events. However, there are risks associated with these missions that can pose serious threats to personnel and equipment. Consider the following for all drops you are coordinating:

  • Be aware of the location and flight patterns (final approach, drop zone, exit) of aircraft during drop operations.
  • Ensure you have positive contact with the pilot before the drop.
    • Clear all persons, vehicles, and animals from the danger zone prior to the arrival of the aircraft.
    • Beware of streamers or parachutes that do not open.
  • Personnel can be injured by the impact of material dropped by aircraft. Clear personnel out of the target area before the drop is conducted. If an individual is caught unaware in a drop zone:
    • Hold hand tools away from your body.
    • Lie face down with hardhat in place and head toward the oncoming aircraft.
    • Grasp something firm to prevent being carried or rolled about by dropped liquid.
    • Do not run unless escape is guaranteed.
    • Get clear of dead snags and tree tops.
    • Be aware of rolling debris below the drop site in steep terrain.
  • Use caution when working in an area covered by retardant. Surfaces are slippery.
  • Wash the retardant off your skin as soon as possible to prevent irritation.

 

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The Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Book are now available for Medical Unit Leader (MEDL)

Date: October 16, 2024
Contact: Incident Medical Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Medical Unit Leader, PMS 350-39 and NWCG Position Task Book for Medical Unit Leader (MEDL), PMS 311-39 are now available.

The Performance Support Package, which for MEDL includes the Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Book, were developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. The Performance Support Package will support trainees, those qualified in the position, and evaluators.

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Date: October 9, 2024
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The Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP) is back online following a migration to a new learning management system (LMS) application. The WFLP team is actively addressing any issues that may arise as a result of the update, and appreciates your patience as the team works to enhance your experience. NWCG will share information from the WFLP as it is available.

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NWCG Equipment Technology Committee Releases New Equipment Bulletins

Date: September 27, 2024
Contact: Equipment Technology Committee

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) has released three new Equipment Bulletins:

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ETC-EB-24-003 Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in fuel containers

ETC-EB-24-004 Two-compartment fuel and oil container (Dolmar) unavailable in the United States (US) and reminders for upkeeping current inventories

ETC-EB-24-005 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Inspection, Care, and Maintenance

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Contact: Ashleigh D'Antonio and George Risko, Leadership Committee

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