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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 wildland firefighters hiking down a valley to a fire. Black topo map and WFSTAR logo on left.

Fire Technology

Fire technology has changed a lot in the last few years. The use of mobile technology, like smart phones, tablets or apps, on the fireline is becoming the new norm.
Category: Communications
Core Component(s):
Fire and Aviation Operational Safety
Estimated Delivery Time: 30 minutes
Video Length: 7:05

Remote Video

Intent

Examine how the technology used to fight fires has changed over the years. Mobile devices and apps on the fireline are the new norm.

Facilitator Preparation

  • Review the video and module tools.
  • Identify apps and intel websites that are pertinent to your location, agency, audience and be prepared to discuss and share them.

Facilitating the Discussion

  • Show the video.
  • Facilitate a small or large group discussion using the discussion questions.

Discussion Questions

  1. How has technological advancement helped you while on an assignment over the last five years? Have there been any negative impacts from this technology movement?
  2. What are you using as an electronic navigation device or compass? If it is a mobile device, can you show the class how to use it in less than five minutes?
  3. What websites do you gather intel from before departing for a fire assignment?
  4. What apps are you using on your mobile device while on fire assignments?
  5. What is the most impressive technology used on fire assignments that you have seen?
  6. Where do you see technological advances five years from now?

Resources

Additional Video Information

  • This video is also available as a download (zip file, size 17 MB) with .srt file for closed captioning (you may need to right click and Save As). For information on how to add closed captioning to a video, see this how to page.
  • Note: For Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, right click the word download and select ‘Save Link As; for IE, right click and select Save Target As.

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NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

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References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

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NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

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References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

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Date: March 4, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: WFLDP Curriculum Management

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References:

Professional Reading Program

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program